The Hazards of Simultaneous Operations

Photo credit: www.Drillers.com

Simultaneous operations or “SimOps” in the oil and gas industry refers to the process where multiple operations are carried out in the same area, at the same time. These operations can include drilling, production, and maintenance activities. This approach can save time and money, but it also comes with significant hazards that can put workers at risk of injury or death.

This practice can create potential hazards that increase the risk of accidents, such as collisions, explosions, fires, and toxic gas releases. The risks can also be compounded by the complexity and interdependence of the activities, as well as the involvement of multiple contractors and subcontractors.

One of the most significant hazards of SimOps is the potential for equipment and machinery to interfere with each other. When multiple operations are occurring simultaneously, it is essential to ensure that they are adequately spaced and separated to prevent collisions and other accidents.

To minimize risks to workers during SimOps, it is crucial that operators conduct a thorough risk assessment, develop a comprehensive safety plan, and provide appropriate training and equipment. Communication protocols must be clear and effective, and workers must be made aware of potential hazards associated with SimOps.

An oil and gas accident resulting from SimOps can be a complex legal matter as it can often be difficult to determine who is liable for the damages. Injured workers need an experienced attorney to help navigate the legal complexities of a SimOps accident by thoroughly investigating the incident, identifying all parties involved, and determining those parties responsible. Contact an attorney at Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner for a free evaluation by calling 713-222-7211 or toll-free at 1-800-870-9584.