Published on: July 23, 2024
It is questionable whether infamous criminal Willie Sutton really said he robbed banks “Because that’s where the money is.” Unquestionably, entrepreneurs, major energy corporations, and governments worldwide look underground because that’s where the oil is.
Oil and gas exploration and extraction—the upstream sector—begins by bringing these raw materials from below ground to above, where workers throughout the industry are exposed to fall hazards that continue through transportation and storage—the midstream sector—and processing and distribution—the downstream sector.
Identifying and mitigating these hazards is crucial to protecting workers in all sectors so that energy and other petroleum-based products arrive safe and sure where the businesses and people are.
Explore for the hazards.
Fall hazards can be as abundant as oil and gas reserves.
Upstream
- Uneven terrain and slippery surfaces.
- Rig platforms and walkways.
- Drilling equipment, cables, and hoses on the ground.
Midstream
- Pipeline construction and maintenance on unsure footing.
- Platforms and walkways at storage facilities.
- Transportation infrastructure monitoring and maintenance.
Downstream
- Loading and unloading areas.
- Maintenance and production work in confined spaces and at large equipment.
- Refinery and processing plant floors with obstructions.
Pipe Racks
- Organize and brace piping systems for drilling operations and well pads upstream.
- Bracket systems in pipelines to handle the midstream intake, storage, and dispatch of oil and gas.
- Support a complex network of piping systems in storage facilities, refineries, petrochemical plants, gas processing, and power generation plants downstream.
Drill down for safety solutions.
Fortunately, for every hazard, there is an equal and attractive fall protection solution.
Guardrails – Safety Railing and Guard Rail are essential where workers are exposed to fall risks, such as the edges of roof structures, elevated platforms and walkways. They offer a physical barrier, preventing falls from heights and ensuring compliance with OSHA regulations. Modular guardrail systems constructed of pipe-fitted components are easy to customize to the work area and install without welding or drilling. If the work requirements change—or the site is closed—the modular system can be disassembled or reconfigured as needed. The railings should be constructed of solid and durable materials, such as anodized aluminum or galvanized steel, to resist corrosion and provide longevity in harsh environments.
Non-slip Walkways – Non-slip, self-draining treads made of aluminum alloy or glass-reinforced plastic—supported by galvanized steel frames—will withstand harsh environments and enable workers to avoid hazards as they traverse designated safe paths. Walkways can be fitted with guardrails for added fall protection.
Crossover Platforms – Work areas in all oil and gas industry sectors can be cluttered with obstructions, gaps, or a change in working level that must be navigated safely. Modular crossover platforms feature the non-slip treads used in walkways to build the steps and platform decks. They are supported by aluminum or galvanized steel frames with OSHA-compliant guardrails. Stabilizing bases can be steel, aluminum, or recycled PVC.
Overhead Fall Arrest Systems – Designed to stop or “arrest” a fall that has already begun these solutions consist of a body harness, lanyard or self-retracting lifeline and overhead anchorage point such as Rigid Rail Systems or Cable-based Horizontal Lifelines. These systems are often used to enable unencumbered and give workers full mobility to conduct activities subject to the four-foot rule per OSHA regulations and work that extends outside of what would be considered safe height margins by any standard. These fall into the category of engineered systems and are designed to provide OSHA/ANSI compliant access and fall protection.
However, rigid rail systems can also be modular in nature and assembled using per-engineered components. Modular rigid rail fall arrest systems are frequently used to help users navigate and work on the vehicles to inspect and maintain, whereas engineered systems are frequently used on the top of railcars and tankers to unload and load.
Work Platforms – Modular work access platforms are used for various oil and gas industry tasks, notably inspections and equipment maintenance. They can be tailored to specific applications and constructed of aluminum or galvanized steel with anti-slip treads and pipe-fitted bases, frames, and guardrails to withstand the demanding conditions of all industry sectors, from harsh weather to chemical and corrosive environments. Work platforms can be fixed (or static) for permanent installations, frequently used workstations, or to access hard-to-reach areas. Platforms with heavy-duty breaking casters provide station-to-station portability and are safer and more efficient than ladders. Custom work platforms can be engineered for adjustable height, with racks and shelves for tools, equipped with services (e.g., electric, water, air), or a self-closing safety gate for added fall protection.
Pipe Rack Lifelines – Pipe rack lifelines provide continuous fall protection for multiple workers navigating the many areas where pipe racks are found in the oil and gas industry. Engineered for ease of installation and maintenance, they are built from robust galvanized and stainless steel components. The stainless steel cables are affixed to horizontal lifelines that workers attach to a harness. This allows for mobility while remaining securely anchored. The cables meet OSHA and ANSI regulatory standards, ensuring maximum safety and compliance.
Which solution is best for you?
The oil and gas industry’s upstream, midstream, and downstream sectors present multiple fall hazards that must be mitigated with compliant fall protection systems and equipment. If worker safety is your responsibility, contact Flexible Lifeline Systems. We will discuss your needs and concerns about regulatory compliance, visit your site to conduct a safety audit, and map out a plan. Our services can include as little or as much as you need, from design, engineering, and fabrication to installation, training, and other support.