General Recommendations

When employers adhere to best practices and take general preventative measures, they establish a firm foundation that strengthens process-specific and task-specific preventative measures. For example, when workers are trained about the selection and use of respirators, they are prepared to protect themselves if a new respiratory hazard is introduced into their workplace, such as hydrogen sulfide gas. Employers should take the following actions:

• Develop and implement a safety program that addresses all potential workplace hazards.
• Evaluate and monitor the hazards at the work site. The Job Safety Analysis(JSA) Process (also referred to simply as the JSA) is a useful tool to identify hazards and find solutions.
• Ensure that both employers and their workers are informed about work site hazards and the safe practices required to minimize or eliminate the hazards.
• Attempt to eliminate or reduce the hazard as the first step toward protecting employees.
• Supply personal protective equipment (PPE) that provides optimal levels of protection for specific tasks.
• Maintain optimal working conditions to the extent possible, such as optimal temperatures, adequate lighting, safe noise levels, well-spaced rest periods, and access to medical attention when needed.
• Establish and maintain a comprehensive worker training program.
• Develop an Emergency Response Plan that workers are trained to immediately activate as needed. The plan should include a written hazard communication program and drill, escape, and evacuation procedures.

To learn more about Oil & Gas Extraction visit our Oil & Gas Extraction Safety Online Training web page.