A_CULTURE_OF_SAFETY

Safety is the top priority of Alaska’s oil and gas industry. Each company is committed to delivering the energy that fuels America in a safe, reliable way, while protecting its workers, the environment, and the communities where it operates. In short, safety plays a critical role in everything the industry does.

Safety policies –
communication, leadership,
reporting, correcting
Safety procedures and resources Safety training

 

DID_YOU_KNOW

The natural resource industry in Alaska, including oil and gas and mining, is one of the safest industries in the state, with a workplace incident rate 67% lower than other goods-producing industries.

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SAFETY_POLICIES Safety is the most vital of oil and gas industry activities because most operations, environments, and chemicals in the industry have potential to pose serious safety and health threats to employees. Hazards could include anything from a slip and fall, to unfavorable ventilation, to a machinery accident. The culture of safety begins with the leadership of each oil and gas company. Companies provide clear and frequent communication of safety standards that are prominent at worksites, in company meetings, and on their websites. Employees are encouraged to report unsafe conditions, and are given the power and responsibility to stop a job at any time if they think it is unsafe.Best practices and lessons learned are shared through company newletters, regular safety meetings, or both.
SAFETY_PROCEDURES Planning is essential to safety. Before new projects are undertaken, or new equipment, procedures, or personnel are employed, companies consider the risk potential and how to reduce it. Safe practices are developed and implemented for all facets of any project including:

    • Personal protective equipment use
    • Driving and transportation safety
    • Working in inclement weather
    • Slip and fall protection
    • Safe use of power sources
    • Emergency excavation procedures
    • Possible equipment/machine hazards
    • Safe chemical handling and storage
    • Electrical work
    • Fire protection
SAFETY_TRAINING All oil and gas employees take mandated safety training and frequently drill safe emergency procedures. Each workday in the field and most meetings begin with a safety briefing that informs attendees of any risks they could encounter, emergency procedures, and group muster points in case of evacuation.

Continual monitoring of working conditions and risks are essential, and the industry has specialists whose sole responsibility is Health, Safety, and Environment or HSE. HSE specialists promote worksite or product safety by applying knowledge of industrial processes, mechanics, chemistry, psychology, and industrial health and safety laws. They are responsible for ensuring that all risks are identified, and have an appropriate risk management plan in place.

DID_YOU_KNOW

Workers on the North Slope must wear their safety goggles inside vehicles in case a rock hits the windshield and creates glass chips or more extensive damage.

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SAFETY_TIPS_FOR_THE_HOME

A culture of safety isn’t just for the workplace; it’s a great principle to implement at home, too. Below are some questions for your family to review together. Depending on your answers, you may want to make some adjustments to ensure your home is safe and the perfect place to relax and enjoy time together.

    • Is lighting adequate in all traffic areas, including sidewalks, entrance areas, basements and stairways?
    • Are traffic areas, especially stairs, free of clutter and any tripping hazards?
    • Are there sturdy railings on all stairways, even in the basement and outdoors?
    • Is your home protected by these safety devices: Smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, carbon monoxide detectors, Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters on electrical outlets in the bathroom and basement? When was the last time you tested them? Do you know where they are?
    • Is all wiring in good condition? Is wiring adequate for the electrical appliances used in the house, including computer equipment?
    • Are chimneys for wood burning stoves and fireplaces clear and cleaned yearly?
    • Are any flammable liquids such as gasoline and paint thinner stored in approved covered containers, in well ventilated areas? Are they kept far away from sources of ignition, such as cigarettes and pilot lights?
    • Are the handles of pots and pans always turned toward the center of the stove, not the edge of the stove where they can be reached by children and animals or accidentally touched by someone passing by? Are knives stored safely in a knife holder or other device so someone will not accidentally touch the blade?
    • Are all medicines and cleaning materials stored well out of reach of children?
    • Are emergency numbers posted at each telephone? Is the house address and telephone number posted there as well?
SOURCES