Anthony LaFaziaCEO, Atlantic Training · CEO at Atlantic Training | EdTech & Safety Compliance Leader

Industry Specific Rotating Hazards Every Oil and Gas Worker Needs to Know

15 Sept 2026 · 2 min

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1:55

In this instructional safety briefing for oil and gas rig workers, the speaker highlights three common rotating‑equipment hazards and provides concrete safety practices to prevent accidents. First, the Kelly bushing and rotary table require workers to stay clear, avoid stepping on a moving table, and keep the surrounding area free of mud and debris to prevent slips that can lead to disaster. Second, manually operated catheads demand clean, grease‑free rope, never wrapping hands around the line, and maintaining clear visual contact and communication with the person being pulled. Third, pump jacks and their counterweights act like giant swinging hammers; workers must stay out of guardrails while the unit runs, recognize that stored gravitational potential energy can cause the weights to swing even when the motor is off, and always block or secure the equipment before performing work. The overall message stresses vigilance, clear communication, and proper energy control to avoid injuries.

Chapters

Before we wrap up, I want to call out a few specific pieces of gear that are notorious in our industry. First, the Kelly bushing and rotary table. When you're on the rig floor, you maintain your distance. Never step on the rotary table when it's moving or has the potential to move. It sounds obvious, but really, people get complacent. And keep the area clear of mud and debris. A slip near the rotary table, it's usually a slip into disaster. Second, catheads. If you're using a manually operated cathead, And I know some of you still are. You have to be flawless. Keep the rope clean. A dirty, greasy rope can snag and wrap around the drum, taking your hand with it. Never wrap your hand in the line. And always have a clear view of the person you're pulling for. Communication is key here. Third, you have pump jacks and counterweights. Out in the field, those counterweights and the pump jacks are basically giant swinging hammers. Never walk inside the guardrails while the unit's in operation. And remember that stored energy we talked about? Well, even if the motor is off, those weights can swing down if the brake fails or it's not set properly. Gravitational potential energy, as we call it, is real. Block them before you work on them. Every time.