Safety Precautions

Being an Fuel worker has been described as one of the “most dangerous jobs in South Africa.” Furthermore, the fatality rate in the fuel industry is seven times higher compared to all other industries in the South Africa.

How to Improve Fuel Industry Safety

It’s vital that the Rufaro fuels does all it can to limit the number of fatalities and injuries in the industry by minimizing oil and gas hazards. So, how can you improve fuel industry safety?

The following are 10 Rufaro Fuels training safety tips for the fuel industry:

1. Work Closely With Local Emergency Response Services.

Build relationships with local emergency response services in order to foster better communication and improve overall safety. It’s important that emergency responders, rig hands, and company health and safety professionals cooperate to make the best use of their resources so that they are able to deal with emergencies quickly and effectively.

2. Develop a Safety Program That Brings Workers Together.

Foster an environment of open communication and respect. No one understands the risks associated with an oil rig better than those working on it. Develop a personal approach to safety training and allot time for workers to become familiar with each other. Stronger personal connections between workers will build both trust and camaraderie.

3. Ensure Familiarity With the Workplace.

It’s vital that fuel industry safety training is provided for workers. At the outset, all workers need to fully understand their role, potential hazards, and the necessary safety precautions. Ensure procedures and hazards are fully communicated to new workers.

4. Don’t Neglect Housekeeping.

Reduce accidents by keeping floors, pathways, and all work areas clear of unnecessary items to prevent trips and falls. Look at all minor hazards—a small hazard can very quickly escalate into a bigger issue. Analyze health and safety data as this will ensure that you have a better understanding of where potential risks can occur.

5. Monitor Workers’ Mental Health.

Workplace culture, if poorly managed, can negatively impact safety. Rather than encouraging the ‘tough guy’ stereotype, build a sense of community and trust with Fuel workers, which will make them more likely to ask for help, obey rules, admit mistakes, and seek advice.

6. Use Labeling and Color-Coding.

Use labeling to direct, warn, and communicate information to workers. In addition, color-code materials including specific tools and equipment in the workplace to make them easier to find.

7. Ensure Illegible Signage is Replaced.

Ensure that worn out, illegible, and outdated signage is replaced with new signs. Check for floor markings that need to be reapplied.

8. Conduct a Safety Check When Projects Change.

When worksites, projects, and crews change, ensure that signs and labels are in the correct areas, and communicate hazards and procedures before the next project begins.

9. Keep Up With Machine Maintenance.

On offshore rigs, machines are a lifeline for workers that are hundreds of miles offshore. Prevent premature machine failure and keep your workers safe by conducting regular maintenance checks.

10. Install In-Vehicle Monitoring Systems (IVMS).

Accidents related to driving or riding in a motor vehicle account for a significant proportion of fuel industry fatalities. Monitor driver behavior and identify issues and poor habits so you can best determine how to improve your vehicle safety programs.