Employees in Pennsylvania might benefit from understanding more about hand protection in the gas and oil industry, as described by the Occupational Health and Safety (OSHA). The fatality rate in this industry is eight times higher than the workplace average for the nation. These workplace injuries have become common at refineries, transportation hubs, and drilling sites in the gas and oil sector. This type of work can be especially detrimental to workers’ hands.
Workers employed in this industry routinely work with chains, pipes, heavy equipment, and other types of tools. This work is often done with hands frequently exposed to oil and related byproducts, thereby increasing the risk of slippage or a similar type of accident. Additionally, workers face risks from caustic chemicals, electrical dangers, and molten metal, making protective gear like safety boots and gloves essential. Even without slippage, the viscosity in oil can reduce the hand’s grip on an object by 30 to 40 percent. Injuries from drops and slips become inevitable, and developing conditions like carpal tunnel are common as well.
Employees who suffer symptoms caused by carpal tunnel syndrome miss about 25 days of work, on average. Workers involved in the gas and oil industry may need to wear specialized gloves in order to provide adequate protection for their hands. In 2012, nearly 140 employees in the gas and oil industry were killed on the job, while approximately 20 percent of the injuries involved a finger, hand, or wrist. In many cases, a hand injury suffered on an oilfield can cost more than $21,000.
Employees who have suffered injuries may benefit from confiding in a lawyer. Legal counsel could investigate the incident and could possibly help determine whether the employer or a third party should be held liable for damages. Lawyers may also help injured employees obtain wage benefits and medical coverage as well.
Legal Protection for Oil and Gas Companies
Oil and gas companies must navigate a complex web of laws and regulations to ensure the safety of their operations and protect the environment. Compliance with the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) is paramount, as it mandates employers to provide a safe working environment, which includes the provision of personal protective equipment (PPE) and comprehensive training on its use. Additionally, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) plays a crucial role in regulating the oil and gas industry to prevent pollution and safeguard natural resources.
Beyond federal regulations, oil and gas companies must also adhere to state and local laws, which can vary significantly depending on the location of their operations. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in severe consequences, including hefty fines, penalties, and potential legal action. Therefore, it is imperative for oil and gas companies to stay informed and ensure strict adherence to all relevant regulations to maintain operational integrity and avoid legal pitfalls.
Environmental Protection and Regulatory Compliance
The oil and gas industry is subject to stringent environmental regulations designed to minimize its impact on the environment. Key regulations include the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, and the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). To comply with these laws, oil and gas companies must implement measures such as using the best available control technology (BACT) and developing spill prevention control and countermeasure (SPCC) plans.
The EPA requires oil and gas companies to report their greenhouse gas emissions and take steps to reduce them. Additionally, companies must manage the disposal of hazardous waste, including drilling fluids and produced water, in accordance with regulatory standards. Non-compliance with these environmental regulations can lead to significant fines, penalties, and legal challenges, underscoring the importance of rigorous environmental protection and regulatory compliance within the industry.
Operational Safety and Risk Management
Ensuring the safety of operations in the oil and gas industry is paramount. Companies must provide appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and thorough training on its use to safeguard their employees. Implementing robust risk management strategies is essential to identify and mitigate potential hazards, such as chemical hazards, hydrogen sulfide, and static electricity.
Regular maintenance and inspection of production equipment are critical to preventing accidents and ensuring operational safety. Additionally, oil and gas companies must have comprehensive emergency response plans in place to address potential accidents or spills promptly. Adopting a safety management system (SMS) can further help companies identify and mitigate potential hazards, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and promoting a culture of safety within the organization.
Cybersecurity and Data Protection for Oil and Gas Industries
The oil and gas industry is increasingly becoming a target for cyber threats, including hacking and malware attacks. To protect their data and prevent cyber attacks, oil and gas companies must implement robust cybersecurity measures, such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and encryption. Regular software updates and patches are crucial to maintaining the integrity of their systems.
In addition to data protection, oil and gas companies must also safeguard their above-ground infrastructure, including pipelines and storage facilities, from potential cyber threats. Implementing a cybersecurity management system (CSMS) can help companies identify and mitigate potential cyber threats, ensuring compliance with regulations and protecting their critical assets. By prioritizing cybersecurity, oil and gas companies can enhance their resilience against cyber attacks and maintain the security of their operations.
Why Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford P.C. Is Your Advocate for Workplace Injuries in the Oil and Gas Industry
The oil and gas industry presents unique risks to employees, with hand injuries being among the most common and costly. At Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford P.C., we are committed to protecting the rights of injured workers and ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve. With over 65 years of experience serving Pennsylvania, we offer ethical and effective representation in workers’ compensation claims and third-party liability cases.
Our attorneys understand the complexities of workplace injury cases, particularly in high-risk industries like oil and gas. Recognized by U.S. News & World Report and Pennsylvania Super Lawyers, we work diligently to secure benefits for medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation. Contact us at (215) 822-7575 or through our contact form to learn how we may assist you.
Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford P.C.
Pennsylvania Attorney's
January 29, 2025
