OSHA Hits Texas Oil Rig with $130,900 in Fines
Seven serious violations involve failing to provide protection from trip and fall hazards, ensure electrical cords are not spliced, and ensure industrial machines were properly guarded.
OSHA has cited Big Spring, Texas-based Robinson Drilling of Texas Ltd. for 11 safety and health violations at the company's Gaskin Field, Gaskins Well No. 1, Rig No. 20 worksite in Lenorah, Texas. An inspection was conducted by OSHA's Lubbock District Office under the agency's Regional Emphasis Program for the Oil and Gas Industry. Proposed penalties total $130,900.
"This is not the first time Robinson Drilling of Texas has exposed its employees to preventable workplace hazards," said Diego Alvarado, OSHA's acting area director in El Paso. "It is fortunate that in this case there were no injuries or fatalities."
Seven serious violations involve failing to provide protection from trip and fall hazards, ensure electrical cords are not spliced, ensure industrial machines were properly guarded, ensure outlet boxes are covered, and provide a storage area free from hazards.
Four repeat violations involve failing to maintain operational eyewash stations, periodically inspect fire extinguishers, install grounding rods, and ensure unused openings on electrical panels were properly guarded. OSHA cited the company for similar violations in 2007, resulting in penalties of $450, and again in June 2008, with penalties of $7,800.
Robinson Drilling of Texas employs about 500 workers nationwide.