Source
Cincinnati, OH: U.S. Department of Health, Education, and Welfare, Public Health Service, Centers for Disease Control, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, DHEW (NIOSH) Publication No. 78-190, 1978 Sep; :1-68
Abstract
The purpose of this guide was to offer recommendations for good safety practices and an analysis of frequently violated regulations to assist those responsible for safe work practices in the oil and gas well drilling and servicing operations to function effectively. Health and safety guidelines were outlined along with steps for effective employee training, machine guarding, safe operation of powered tools, environmental control technology, and hazards of this industry. Frequently violated regulations were noted, including those concerning walking and working surfaces, exit markings and structure, environmental exposures, hazardous materials, personal protective equipment (eyes, face, head, foot, hearing, respiratory system and whole body suits), medical and first aid, fire protection, compressed air equipment, materials handling and storage, machinery and machine guarding, hand tools and portable powered tools, electrical code violations, recordkeeping, and welding, cutting and brazing operations. Specific hazardous materials noted for this industry included air contaminants, acids, asbestos (1332214), carbon-monoxide (630080), hydrogen-sulfide (7783064), lead (7439921), solvents, excessive noise levels, flammable and combustible liquids, and spray painting operations. General environmental problems encountered included a lack of sanitation facilities, and potential exposures to rodents, snakes, animals, parasites and infectious diseases.