November 29, 2023

Greetings from Basin Safety! I’m Jon Greiner, and I’m thrilled to connect with you through my blog posts! At Basin Safety, we’re not just consultants; we’re your partners in ensuring safety in the Oil and Gas industry. Today, let’s unravel the importance of common sense and good judgment in the oilfield—a topic close to our hearts and challenging to quantify.

A Journey into Uncharted Territories

The oilfield isn’t your everyday workplace—it demands courage, skill, and a profound sense of responsibility. For those of us working in this dynamic environment, often alone, safety isn’t just a protocol; it’s a way of life. Join me as we explore the pivotal role of common sense in creating a secure work environment.

The Solo Operator’s Dilemma

Isolation Challenges:

Being a lone worker, especially for lease operators, comes with its unique set of challenges. The absence of immediate assistance underscores the need for individual prudence—a challenge we navigate daily.

Decision-Making Wisdom:

In the solitude of the oilfield, the ability to discern which problems to tackle independently and which require external help is paramount. Prioritizing personal safety over time efficiency is a principle etched in our work ethos.

The Art of Planning Ahead

Routine Safety Practices:

Planning ahead is not just a strategy; it’s a way of life out her in the oilfield. As lease operators, we cultivate routines, like checking spare tires and carrying essential tools, anticipating potential failures before they unfold.

Anticipating Challenges:

The oilfield’s dynamic nature demands proactive thinking. Questions like “What if I encounter problems out here in the middle of nowhere?” aren’t just hypothetical; they’re a daily challenge integral to risk mitigation, a skill honed through experience.

Communication: The Lifeline in Isolation

Reliable Communication Devices:

As a lone worker, having reliable means of communication, like portable phones, cell phone boosters or radios, is non-negotiable. But it goes beyond that—knowing the location of the nearest public phone or house is our backup plan.

Emergency Preparedness:

Effective communication isn’t just a convenience; it’s our lifeline in emergencies. Quick and accessible communication channels are our bridge to summoning help when every second counts.

Weaving a Tapestry of Safety with Common Sense

Wrapping up, oilfield safety isn’t a mere checklist; it’s about embodying common sense and good judgment. At Basin Safety, we recognize the pivotal role of these qualities in navigating the oilfield’s challenges. By fostering a proactive mindset, prioritizing personal safety, and ensuring effective communication, we— operators and Basin technicians alike—can weave a tapestry of safety that withstands the complexities of working in isolation.

At Basin Safety, common sense isn’t just a part of the safety architecture; it’s the keystone holding it all together. Stay safe out there!

Jon Greiner,

Basin Safety