7 Ways to Keep Your Pipeline Jobsite Safe

Working on a pipeline is a unique job with its own set of dangers. Because of the heavy equipment, suspended loads, terrain conditions, and jobsite pressures, workers are at greater risk of being injured. However, there are ways to minimize the threat and keep work flow up and running.

Here are 7 ways to keep your pipeline jobsite safe.

1. Constant Training
   Training should be a constant practice on the pipeline jobsite. New technologies and equipment are always being introduced. It’s important to stay up to date with new and changing protocols. OHS offers training courses and guides to keep workers and contractors educated.
2.  Job Safety Analysis (JSA)
   At the start of each shift, collectively identify and analyze the list of tasks to be performed that day. Record potential hazards involved and actions necessary to eliminate or reduce the risk of injury
3. Trench Safety
   Cave-ins pose the greatest risk to workers and are much more likely than other excavation-related accidents to result in worker fatalities. One cubic yard of soil can weigh as much as a car. No one should ever enter an unprotected trench. Trenches and excavations five feet deep or greater require a protective system unless the excavation is made entirely in stable rock.
4. Proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
   Personal protective equipment includes any apparatus or garment intended to protect you from injury or illness. Eye and hearing protection, safety boots, gloves, and hard hats should always be worn on pipeline jobsites.
5. Safely Operate Heavy Equipment
   Equipment operators must read and understand the Operation and Maintenance Manuals (OMMs) of all equipment they operate on the jobsite. Before stepping into a machine, be sure you understand the operating controls and proper operation procedures and have assessed the operating conditions.
6. Safe Excavation Procedures
   Make the One Call before digging, verifying that all underground utilities are marked and their depths noted. Before beginning work in an excavation, consider the hazards and ensure the competent person has inspected the trench for proper sloping or benching and the use of protective systems.
7. Walking and Working Surfaces
   Slips, trips and falls are best avoided with good housekeeping. Keep walkways clear of tools (welding leads, extension cords, etc.) and debris; clean spills immediately; and make it clear others are expected to do the same.

Make sure your crew keeps their eyes and ears open for anything that could pose a potential threat. For more tips on workplace safety, visit the Submar SAFETY page.