The unsung heroes of the upstream oil and gas industry are in fact, the oil field workers deployed on the forefront of the oil fields in this business. A job that demands intense labor, high stakes, and a relentless commitment to safety and precision. The upstream sector involves the exploration and production of oil and gas, which includes everything from drilling and extracting these resources from the earth.
For most oil field workers, the day starts early, before dawn. Workers either stay in housing provided by the company or are flown in for several weeks of intensive work. After a quick breakfast, they are assembled for a safety meeting as the crew discusses objectives of the day, go through reports from the day before, potential hazards, and safety protocols. This is crucial, as the environment is fraught with potential risks, from heavy machinery to volatile substances which can cause damage beyond repair.
Morning: On Site
Post the safety briefing, workers head out to the drilling rig or production platform. The project could be in the middle of nowhere, a desert, deep in a forest, or offshore on a platform miles from land. The rig is a hive of activity, with different teams working on drilling, mud logging, or maintaining equipment.
Whether it’s connecting heavy drill pipes, operating machinery, or monitoring the drilling process, every role requires focus and teamwork. Tasks are often physically very strenuous, but it is not simply the physical demands. The workers must be vigilant about safety at all times, constantly aware of their surroundings and the potential for accidents.
Midday: Lunch and Refuel
Midday includes a brief interval as workers break out for lunch. Depending on the location, lunch could be in a canteen on an offshore platform or a ready to eat meal in the middle of a desert. This break is also to give the workers some time to de-stress and recharge for the second half of the shift.
Afternoon: Maintenance & Monitoring
There is also a shift in focus to maintenance and monitoring of operations. This involves checking the integrity of equipment, ensuring that the drilling fluids are at optimal levels, or monitoring the data coming from the well. In the upstream industry, technology plays a big part in how workers interact with advanced software systems and sensors that monitor everything from well pressure to seismic activity.
However, since technology isn’t completely reliable, the worker’s experience and intuition often guide the decision-making process. For instance, an experienced driller can sense changes in the drilling resistance that indicate a potential problem, prompting preventive measures.
Late Afternoon: Shift Change & Reporting
At the end of the day, workers finish their shift and hand over responsibilities to the next crew, ensuring that all information is passed on effectively. Detailed reports are generated, documenting the day’s activities, any issues encountered, and the progress of the drilling or production operations.
Evening: Rest and Recuperation
After the shift, workers head back to their quarters. Evenings in the oil field include a mix of relaxation and preparation for the next day. Some might spend time getting more sleep, calling up their family or enjoying recreational facilities if available. Others might use this time to study, as many oil companies encourage ongoing education and certifications.
Work Environment
Needless to say, sleep is paramount, as the next day brings the same demanding routine. Workers are often stationed in remote or offshore locations, far from the comforts of urban life. They work long shifts, sometimes up to 12 hours a day, and stay on location for weeks at a stretch before getting a break.
The long hours, isolation, and physical toll can be challenging, but for many, the thrill of problem-solving, the camaraderie with fellow workers, relying on each other for safety and support, and creating a tight-knit community encourage them towards this line of work. The job is physically demanding, requiring strength, endurance, and a high level of alertness, but the rewards, both in terms of pay and the pride in contributing to a critical industry, are worth it.
Many workers begin with basic qualifications and receive on the job training, with opportunities to advance into more specialized roles as they gain experience.
Conclusion
In a nutshell, the job of an oil field worker is not for the faint of heart, and plays an integral role in the upstream oil and gas industry. These workers are the backbone of energy production. The job demands resilience, adaptability, and a strong work ethic. While the work is arduous, it offers a unique blend of adventure, teamwork, and the satisfaction of being a key player in the global energy supply chain that fuels our modern world.
