ORIGINAL ARTICLES

Fatalities Involving Substance Use Among US Oil and Gas Extraction Workers Identified Through an Industry Specific Surveillance System (2014–2019)

Ramirez-Cardenas, Alejandra MPH; Wingate, Kaitlin C. MPH; Pompei, Richard DO, MPH; King, Bradley PhD, MPH; Scott, Kenneth A. PhD, MPH; Hagan-Haynes, Kyla MPH; Chosewood, L. Casey MD, MPH

Author Information
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 65(6):p 488-494, June 2023. | DOI: 10.1097/JOM.0000000000002856

Objective 

Characteristics of oil and gas extraction (OGE) work, including long hours, shiftwork, fatigue, physically demanding work, and job insecurity are risk factors for substance use among workers. Limited information exists examining worker fatalities involving substance use among OGE workers.

Methods 

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health’s Fatalities in Oil and Gas Extraction database was screened for fatalities involving substance use from 2014 through 2019.

Results 

Twenty-six worker deaths were identified as involving substance use. Methamphetamine or amphetamine was the most common substances (61.5%) identified. Other contributing factors were lack of seatbelt use (85.7%), working in high temperatures (19.2%), and workers’ first day with the company (11.5%).

Conclusions 

Employer recommendations to mitigate substance use–related risks in OGE workers include training, medical screening, drug testing, and workplace supported recovery programs.

Copyright © 2023 American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine

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