Oil and gas are big business, especially in Guyana. It’s a fast-growing part of their economy, creating wealth and jobs. But there’s a downside. Workers face a good deal of hazards. In this blog, his blog delves into the occupational hazards in the oil and gas industry in Guyana. The aim is to make this serious topic accessible and engaging.
Giant offshore oil reserves discovered in 2015 kicked everything off. These days, Guyana’s become a major oil player. The Ministry of Natural Resources predicts they’ll be pumping out 1.2 million barrels each day by 2024. Great for the economy! But with growth comes increased risks for those doing the work.
In the oil and gas world, one of the main risks is dangerous chemicals.
Employees often handle things like hydrocarbons, hydrogen sulfide, and drilling fluids. These can damage the lungs, irritate the skin, or cause serious health problems. OSHA’s 2023 report says chemical exposure leads to about 20% of health incidents in this sector.
There’s also a big risk of explosions and fires. Flammable gasses and liquids are ever-present in this industry. This means that even with careful safety measures, accidents can still happen. In 2022, there were 15 serious fire incidents on offshore oil rigs worldwide, says BSEE. It’s a clear reminder of the need to stay watchful.
Powerful machinery and equipment can pose dangers too. Accidents can cause major injuries or even kill people. In 2023, 25% of oil and gas industry deaths involved machinery, according to IOGP.
Working at height is common in this field, especially offshore. Unfortunately, falls cause a lot of injuries and deaths. API stats show that in 2023, falls accounted for 17% of deaths in the industry.
Confined spaces can also be dangerous. Tanks, vessels, and pipelines often have low oxygen, dangerous gases, or explosive environments. In 2023, OSHA reported that around 10% of industry deaths happened in confined spaces.
Heavy lifting, repeating the same movements, and awkward positions can lead to long-term pain and injury. NIOSH reported in 2023 that it’s a growing issue, affecting 30% of the workforce.
Safety is key in gas or oil fields where dangers always exist. Keeping workers safe relies on strict industry standards. By following these, the chances of harm or fatal accidents are reduced.
A well-trained workforce is part of the solution. Workers need to know how to handle problems and use site machinery. Rigorous training before fieldwork helps lessen risks. Implementing comprehensive safety training programs is crucial for mitigating occupational hazards. Workers should be educated on the proper handling of chemicals, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and emergency response procedures. Regular drills and refresher courses can help reinforce safety protocols.
However, training doesn’t guarantee safety. The field needs safety measures to keep accident rates low. Necessary precautions include fire extinguishers, first-aid kits, signs, and clear escape routes. All areas and structures needed to be strong and built well, to avoid injury during climbing or machine use. Workers must wear personal protective gear like suitable shoes, masks, goggles, earplugs, and gloves. In Guyana, the Ministry of Natural Resources has introduced new safety regulations in 2023, aimed at reducing occupational accidents by 20% by 2025.
The use of advanced technology can significantly enhance safety in the oil and gas industry. Drones, for instance, can be used for inspections, reducing the need for workers to enter hazardous areas. Additionally, wearable technology can monitor workers’ vital signs and alert them to potential hazards in real-time.
Regular health monitoring and medical check-ups for workers can help detect and address health issues early. Providing access to healthcare services and promoting a healthy lifestyle can contribute to the overall well-being of the workforce.
The signing in and out process helps track staff. It flags up if someone is missing after their shift. Long work hours can be tough. Workers sometimes lack rest time, making them more susceptible to hazards. This can have serious outcomes.
Professionals in engineering (excluding electrotechnology) take care of the design, planning, and organization of the tests. This involves the construction, installation, and upkeep of structures, machines, and some parts. Also, the production systems and plants are well taken care of. They plan production timings and work strategies to ensure that engineering projects go safely, efficiently and are cost-effective. They handle the manufacture, installation, working and maintenance of equipment, machines, and plants.
Environmental and occupational health and hygiene professionals assess, plan and implement
programmes to recognize, monitor and control environmental factors that can potentially affect human
health, to ensure safe and healthy working conditions and to prevent disease or injury caused by chemical, physical, radiological and biological agents or ergonomic factors
Physical and engineering science technicians perform technical tasks to aid in research on and
the practical application of concepts, principles and operational methods particular to physical sciences
including such areas as engineering, technical drawing or economic efficiency of production processes.
Tasks performed usually include: undertaking and carrying out technical work related to chemistry, physics, geology, meteorology, astronomy, engineering or technical drawing; setting up, operating, and maintaining laboratory instruments
Sheet and structural metal workers, moulders and welders, and related workers, make moulds
and cores for casting metal, weld and cut metal parts, make and repair articles of sheet metal, and install, erect, maintain and repair heavy metal structures, tackle, cable-cars and related equipment.
Big changes are coming to Guyana’s oil and gas world, helping their economy grow. Yet, it’s not without danger. Workers face many hazards. We can stop this by teaching safety thoroughly, using the newest tech, making safety rules stronger, spreading a safety-first mindset, and regularly checking on health. The GET Global Group is ready to help with expert knowledge and solutions to make work safer. As Guyana’s oil and gas scene changes, the safety of its workers must come first. This is key to helping it grow and succeed.
In addressing the occupational hazards in Guyana’s oil and gas industry, The GET Global Group plays a pivotal role. As a leading provider of comprehensive safety solutions, we offer a range of services, including safety training, risk assessment, and advanced safety technology implementation. Our commitment to enhancing workplace safety and promoting a culture of safety within organizations makes us an invaluable partner for companies in the oil and gas sector.
