The world of offshore oil drilling and production demands a high level of safety and adherence to regulations. For riggers, staying informed about the relevant governing bodies is crucial. This guide simplifies the process.

Who Oversees Safety and Regulations?

Previously, the Minerals Management Service (MMS) handled these aspects. It later became the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, Regulation and Enforcement (BOEMRE). However, a 2011 reorganization divided BOEMRE into two separate entities:

Focuses on resource management and permitting for offshore energy development.

This is the primary agency of concern for riggers. 

BSEE oversees: 

The BSEE website (https://www.bsee.gov/) serves as a valuable resource for staying up-to-date on regulations and best practices.

Looking at the U.S. Oil and Natural Gas Industry, the table suggests a potentially positive trend. There seems to be a consistent, though potentially small, decrease in injury rates over the past decade. However, it's important to note that a single table might not capture the whole picture. Further investigation into safety initiatives and injury prevention programs within the industry would be beneficial to understand this trend more comprehensively.

Even with a potential decrease in injury rates, rigger safety remains a critical focus area in offshore drilling operations. The points highlighted previously about the importance of proper training, established procedures, and a combination of hands-on experience and classroom training are still highly relevant.

The recommendations made by the Safe Lifting Committee to various stakeholders (operators, trade organizations, and regulators) to address identified gaps and deficiencies in safety practices remain essential for ongoing improvement.

By understanding the regulatory landscape and staying informed about safety trends, riggers can play a vital role in ensuring a safe working environment in the offshore oil drilling industry.

*The American Petroleum Institute (API) plays a vital role in promoting safety standards within the oil and gas industry. Their Recommended Practices (RPs) provide valuable guidance for various aspects of operations.

Statistical Data Source: American Petroleum Institute (API). 2023-12-API-Workplace-Safety-Report.pdf. https://www.api.org/news-policy-and-issues/safety-and-system-integrity/workplace-safety-report.