Oil and Gas Safety Experts Target Construction

The oil and gas industries have some of the lowest rates of injury and highest safety standards of industries nationwide. Digital training provider, Atlas Knowledge, is looking to expand that level of strict controls and safety practices to the construction industry, an industry with a relatively high injury rate. They plan to do this through their Core4 Safety at Work courses that focus on the following practices causing the most harm.

Work Travel

Oil and gas workers are most likely to suffer fatal injuries traveling to construction sites because wells are in remote, rural areas. Workers must travel long distances to reach the worksite. Approximately four out of 10 oil and gas worker fatalities are due to highway crashes. Road construction workers are also more likely to suffer fatal injuries from motor vehicles passing through the construction area.

In-Between and Struck-By Hazards

In-between hazards involve a worker who is stuck between an impenetrable surface and a piece of equipment or moving vehicle. This category also includes workers that are struck by falling objects. Both hazards can cause fatal injuries if not properly maintained. The Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) requires employers to train employees about the types of hazards most likely to cause in-between or struck-by accidents, and how to prevent these situations.

Falls

Falls from equipment are often a fatal occupational hazard for oil and gas workers, as well as other types of construction work. OSHA requires employers to cover every floor hole where a worker can accidentally fall into or trip over. Certain construction jobs may necessitate the use of safety nets, stair railings, safety harnesses, and lines and handrails to prevent worker falls. OSHA requires employers to provide employees with the proper safety equipment and training at no cost to workers.

Explosions and Fires

Explosions and fires can occur in any industry where flammable materials are used. OSHA has strict guidelines on the handling of such materials, proper safety equipment, and worker training. Flammable materials do not necessarily have to explode to cause loss of life and permanent injuries. Every year, workers are injured and may suffer fatal injuries from inhaling vapors produced by mobile engines and auxiliary motors. Industries should conduct both a fire risk assessment from these motors and worker training regarding the danger of vapors.

Philadelphia Construction Lawyers at DiTomaso Law Advocate for Victims of Construction Accidents

If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident, you need the services of an experienced Philadelphia construction lawyer. Contact DiTomaso Law for an initial consultation at 215-426-4493, or contact us online. We are in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and proudly serve clients from the surrounding areas.