Understanding Different Types of Toxic and Combustible Gases in the Oil Industry

The oilfield industry is one of the most dangerous jobs. Many people have lost their lives working in the oil and gas industry. Work conditions in the oil industry are harsh, and the weather is unpredictable. Moreover, hazardous machinery can cause serious injuries to the employees. While most of the workers in this industry are aware of the dangers, there are potential, invisible dangers that can affect the employees as they are invisible.

Oil production is a complicated process, requiring a lot of chemicals and reactions to produce the end product. The oil production process generates invisible and odourless toxic gases that are combustible, risking the lives of workers. This is when the Portable gas detectors come to play.

Knowing the potential dangers present in your oil industry can help you implement the right methods to prevent accidents and deaths.

Here are the different types of toxic and combustible gases found in the oil industry:-

Hydrogen Sulphide

Hydrogen sulphide is one of the deadliest hazardous in the oil and gas industry. It’s formed from the decaying process of organic material. In the oil industry, hydrogen sulphide gas is found in the formations that are being drilled for oil. Service workers, oilfield workers, and contractors are all at risk of exposure to this dangerous gas. While it smells like rotten eggs, it becomes odourless in high concentrations of hydrogen sulphide gases. That’s why they are said to be very dangerous. It’s a toxic gas that can cause both short and long-term effects, including nausea, headache, fatigue, dizziness, and loss of consciousness. High concentrated hydrogen sulphide can cause immediate death, and it’s also a flammable gas. They can explode under extreme conditions.

All Flammable Gas

Carbon Monoxide, Oxygen Depletion, Carbon Dioxide, Ammonia, and Benzene are all toxic and dangerous that is flammable. A small fire could lead to severe damages to the workers, property, and organisation. Compressed gases used in maintenance and production, natural gases found when drilling and production of operation, and diesel and gasoline are the other flammable gases used in the oil industry that are dangerous and toxic.

Mercury Vapour

While liquid mercury is a hazardous substance on its own, it’s a major concern in the oil industry. During the process of drilling, it can get accumulated on steel pipes and other equipment. Over time, exposure to mercury vapour can negatively impact the health of the workers and contractors.

Reducing the Risk of Exposure to Toxic Gases

Monitoring Equipment and Training

The oil industry is at high risk of explosions. Fires can bring serious ramifications to your organisation. Fortunately, you could reduce the risk by investing in Flame Detector and train your employees on how to use the equipment and protect themselves.

Whether you need a flame detector or Turbidity Analyser Australia, we got you covered. We provide high-quality gas detectors, turbidity monitors, and other equipment. Please call us for further queries.

The author is an active blogger and renowned for providing innovative solutions such as Flame Detector, gas detectors, Turbidity Analyser Australia, etc., to the Oil & Gas, Chemical, Petrochemical, Manufacturing, Food, Pharmaceutical, Water Treatment, and many other industries across Australia and New Zealand. Visit http://prodetec.com.au/ for more details.