When ANSI B11.0 – 2023 Hand Control Standards Don't Fit the Oil and Gas Industry
The ANSI B11.0 – 2023 standard, specifically section 3.15.4 on hand control, lays out detailed requirements for hand-operated control devices in machinery. While these standards are crucial for ensuring safety in many industrial settings, they don't always perfectly align with the unique demands of the oil and gas sector.
Understanding Hand Control in ANSI B11.0
Section 3.15.4 of ANSI B11.0 – 2023 defines hand control as a mechanism or device used to operate machinery, including various types like two-hand control devices or single trip devices. These standards are designed to minimize the risk of accidents by ensuring that operators must use both hands to activate machinery, thereby keeping their hands safely away from the point of operation.
Why Oil and Gas May Fall Short
In the oil and gas industry, the environments are often more hazardous and complex than those considered in the ANSI B11.0 standard. For instance, workers may need to operate machinery in extreme weather conditions, confined spaces, or areas with explosive atmospheres. These conditions can make the standard hand control mechanisms less effective or even impractical.
Real-World Challenges
I've seen firsthand how the oil and gas industry struggles with implementing these standards. A common scenario is the use of heavy-duty equipment in offshore drilling rigs where the standard two-hand control might not be feasible due to the need for operators to wear bulky protective gear. In such cases, the standard's requirements might fall short in providing the necessary safety measures tailored to these specific conditions.
Adapting Standards for Oil and Gas
While ANSI B11.0 provides a solid foundation for safety, oil and gas companies often need to adapt these standards. This might involve developing custom control systems that can be operated safely in hazardous environments or using additional safety protocols like remote operation systems to reduce the risk of accidents. Based on available research, individual results may vary, but the general consensus is that a tailored approach is necessary for this industry.
