Industry Gets Workers Ready For The Oil Patch

By Chris Wright, The News On 6

BARTLESVILLE, OK -- Business is booming for Oklahoma's oil and gas industries.  But industry officials say their expanding operations are attracting less experienced workers who need more training.

People are understandably attracted to oil and gas jobs these days.  The pay is good, and there is steady work.  But, it's dangerous work, and the industry is taking steps to make sure everyone knows what they're doing out in the oil field.

People who would rather spend their workday outside were instead stuck in a classroom on Thursday.  People like Chris Gaston, who recently left the struggling automotive industry to pursue a career in oil.

"Everybody needs it, and I figured it's a good time to get back into it. It's nice to be outside, and not in a factory like I was," said Chris Gaston.

The safety class, organized by the Oklahoma Independent Petroleum Association, is designed to prevent accidents.  One man was killed last month after an explosion on a rig in Creek County.  Another worker died several weeks earlier after falling from this rig in Osage County.

"I wouldn't say it's a different breed of people, but it's a different group of people than we've had in the past," said Kim Kohler with OIPA.

Kim Kohler with the OIPA says it's important that everyone be aware of the dangers that come with work in the oil fields.

The all-day class focused on protective equipment, fire prevention, dangerous chemicals and environmental awareness.

"They're bringing in new employees, which is a great thing for our economy here in Oklahoma. But, the problem with that is we do create injuries because of the lack of experience," said Cary Sims with AIG Insurance.

"I think this actually the best decision I've made, getting back into this," said Chris Gaston.

The OIPA holds classes across the state throughout the year.  Thursday's seminar also focused on substance abuse, which the OIPA says is on the rise among industry workers.