Oil & Gas PPE: Balancing Comfort and Compliance in High-Risk Zones
High-risk zones demand a robust and informed approach to personal protective equipment (PPE). In the quest for maximum protection, one challenge often emerges: how to maintain compliance with stringent regulations while ensuring workers remain comfortable and productive.
At Hazchem Safety, our oil and gas PPE solutions are engineered to meet the toughest industry demands. They offer protection without compromising the wearer’s ability to perform in extreme environments.
Understanding the Risk Landscape
Upstream Operations
Upstream activities such as exploration and drilling are inherently hazardous. Workers face risks from drilling blowouts, flammable gases, abrasive mud, and high-pressure equipment. PPE here must prioritise flame resistance, anti-static properties, and durability. Typical gear includes FR coveralls, heat-resistant gloves, and oil-resistant safety boots, all capable of withstanding exposure to both fire and heavy mechanical hazards.
The physical environment adds another layer of complexity here: high temperatures, exposure to the elements, and restricted mobility can make traditional PPE uncomfortable and, in some cases, impractical without proper design considerations.
Downstream Operations
In refineries and petrochemical plants, the hazards shift towards chemical exposure, splash risks, and potential refinery fires. Chemical-resistant suits, face shields, and respiratory protection are essential.
Additional operational risks include working near pressurised systems and in confined spaces, both of which require PPE that protects while allowing flexibility and ease of movement.
Regulatory Compliance in the UK
Under the Personal Protective Equipment at Work (Amendment) Regulations 2022, UK employers must adhere to strict guidelines. These rules extend PPE provision to a wider range of workers, outline employer responsibilities for correct selection and maintenance, and require clear training on use.
Full regulatory details can be found via the HSE PPE Regulations 2022.
The Comfort–Compliance Trade-Off
Field Challenges
Poorly designed PPE can cause overheating, restricted mobility, and worker fatigue. This discomfort can lead to reduced compliance, with some workers loosening or removing gear and no longer being protected.
Designing for Both
Modern PPE solutions use advanced fabrics and ergonomic design to balance these competing needs. Lightweight flame-resistant materials, breathable chemical barriers, and tailored fits mean that PPE meets regulatory requirements while allowing a full range of motion and thermal comfort.
Hazchem Safety’s PPE Solutions
Hazchem Safety offers a full range of PPE for both upstream and downstream environments, including flame-retardant coveralls, chemical-resistant overalls, oil-resistant safety boots, and high-spec gloves, all tested and certified to meet or exceed relevant standards.
Customer feedback consistently points to the wearability and durability of these products, making them a practical choice for operators seeking to maintain both safety and productivity.
Selecting the Right PPE
Choosing effective PPE begins with a site-specific risk assessment to account for operational hazards, environmental factors, and the tasks performed. Engaging frontline workers in trials can highlight potential comfort issues before full deployment.
Equally important is supplier support, from product selection advice to training on correct use and maintenance.
Buy with confidence
Balancing comfort with compliance is not just about worker satisfaction — it is about ensuring safety standards are met without operational compromise. By working with Hazchem Safety, oil and gas companies can equip their teams with PPE that protects, performs, and endures.
Ensure your teams are equipped for every high-risk zone. Explore Hazchem Safety’s full range of oil PPE solutions designed for upstream and downstream operations.