Oilfield sites pose many unique and often deadly hazards. Oilfield workers are familiar with the dangers they face daily. The problem is that many others do not realize the risks when they visit drilling locations and old oilfields. Children in particular do not understand the dangers of playing at an old site, jumping on running equipment, or simply being around a drilling platform.
It is common to hear stories from adults of playing on these sites as children. Some stories end innocently enough, while others bring disaster. It is crucial to understand the deadly dangers on oilfield sites and how to stay safe.
Serious Injury on a Drilling Site
The dangers of oilfield sites are all too real, as demonstrated by the story of one 17-year-old. The boy and his friend climbed a fence near an oil drilling rig. The two tried to ride the pump jack for a little bit of fun, according to fire officials. The Oklahoma City Fire Department was called to the scene because the teen’s arm was pinned and had been crushed by the pump. The teen’s friend got the attention of a taxi driver to call an ambulance for help.
According to the Oklahoma City fire deputy chief, they realized the only option was a “field amputation” of the boy’s arm. He cautioned: “Try to remember that what appears to be fun may end up deadly or maiming. I would caution [people] when they hear stories about riding oil or pump jacks or messing with them, [not] to just write that off. It’s not fun when something bad happens.”1
Fortunately, the teen survived his injuries, but not without the loss of his arm by amputation. His injuries could have been much more severe or ended in death.
Fatal Hazards on Oilfield Sites
There is an incredible number of unsafe areas on oilfield sites. These are not fun places in which to play or explore. Heavy machinery and dangerous chemicals make them potentially deadly locations for adults and children alike.
Heavy Machinery
There are many dangerous machines used on oilfield sites. These include large commercial trucks that transport materials and products from the site. They can also include large pumps that may pin or kill those who get too close. The sheer power and size of this equipment can do catastrophic harm to site visitors.
Heavy machinery may be dangerous because of operator error as well. Negligent truck drivers can run over small children or cause major car accidents. Injuries from these accidents can be fatal.2
Toxic Gases
Toxic gases such as hydrogen sulfide (H2S) are common at oilfield sites.3 This colorless gas occurs as part of natural gas or crude petroleum production. It is flammable and smells like rotten eggs. The gas is poisonous when breathed, and individuals may be burned by explosions or die from inhalation.
Other gases that create health risks include:
- Methane
- Carbon monoxide
- Exhaust gas
- Petroleum gases
- Mercury vapor
- Other flammable gases
Fire and Explosion Risks
Children or others who play on oilfield sites could face fires or explosions. Some of these risks occur simply by being on a dangerous oilfield site. Others might happen because the child visitor does something that creates the explosion. For example, kids may decide to smoke or vape next to flammable materials or gases. This can create a massive fire that leads to severe burns, smoke inhalation, and even death.
Slush Pits
Another unique danger associated with oilfield sites is slush pits, which hold waste material from the operation. The chemicals in the liquid can cause severe chemical burns and other skin damage. Those who fall in face the risk of drowning in the slush pit as well.
Slip and Fall Injuries
Kids usually go to an oilfield site to play or hang out without supervision. These properties have many slippery surfaces and tall structures. Children may climb ladders, traverse platforms, or ride an oil pump.
Serious physical damage typically results from slip and fall injuries. Children can hit their heads, break bones, or even die from the impact of a fall from a great height.
Electrical Hazards
The heavy machinery, drill pumps, and much more require electrical input. These electrical sources often have a very high voltage. When children or others are on an oilfield site, the risk of severe electrocution is very high. High voltages can stop a person’s heart, lead to burns, and even cause immediate death.
Some of this danger is due to oilfield management negligence, worn equipment, and employee mistakes. It can also be the result of children playing on the equipment and damaging it somehow. In either case, electrocution can be a deadly hazard.
What Is Needed To Protect Others From Oilfield Dangers?
Education is one of the greatest protections available to the public. Entities such as the U.S. Chemical Safety Board and many others try to educate young people and families about the dangers of these sites.4
Oil companies also have a responsibility to protect the public. Oilfield sites should have signs warning of the deadly dangers. The owners should take reasonable steps to prevent access to the property and ensure the machinery is in good working order. These areas should be fenced in an attempt to keep non-employees out.
Next Steps After an Oilfield Injury
Anyone injured on an oilfield site should immediately seek medical attention. A person’s health is the most important thing, and prompt medical care may make a significant difference in the outcome. Injured people may have legal options as well and should speak with a personal injury attorney soon after the accident.
Sources:
- News on 6. Teen Loses Arm in OKC Oil Pump Jack Accident.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Fatalities in Oil and Gas Extraction Database, an Industry-Specific Worker Fatality Surveillance System — United States, 2014-2019.
- The Osage Nation. There Are Deadly Dangers in Oilfield Sites.
- U.S. Chemical and Safety Board. Home.
