The petroleum industry is an intricate and complex global business, with nearly all aspects of modern life depending upon it at least in some way. This makes it all the more alarming that addiction in the petroleum industry is growing.
Though addiction in any way is scary, the potential danger that an addiction can lead to when in the petroleum industry is even greater because of its high stakes nature. A wrong decision can have wide-reaching effects, putting workers, as well as bystanders, in danger – not to mention the potential environmental issues.
One of the most common addictions in this industry is to alcohol and drugs, and it is believed that more than 60 percent of the individuals employed in the petroleum sector have abused such substances. This figure is especially concerning when considering that those affected are among the most vulnerable members of a company: frontline workers, such as operators, maintenance workers, and rig crews, all of whom are constantly faced with difficult work conditions and forced to make decisions with limited information under pressure.
The use of mind-altering substances in the petroleum industry has been a growing issue for years. In addition to alcoholic beverages and illicit drugs, the problem is now compounded by the more modern issue of prescription drug addiction. While the use of substances such as painkillers can improve workers’ working conditions, it can also lead to hazardous conditions.
Stigma is also adding to the issue. While the rate of addiction in the petroleum industry is not much different than other sectors, this problem is often overlooked because of the prevailing workplaces cultures associated with the industry. Because of its predominately male workers, there is often a ‘macho’ attitude that does not easily recognize when help is needed or shows a stigma against seeking help for addiction.
This obscured problem is however recognized and leading to many companies introducing initiatives targeted at curbing the addiction. Companies are now hiring professionals to come in and help with addiction prevention and rehabilitation programs. Here, workers are taught how to recognize their own addictions, look for early warning signs in colleagues, and know when to seek help. Although it is still not widespread enough, this is a step in the right direction.
In addition, companies are creating their own workplace policies aimed at preventing addiction. This includes drug testing measures, providing meal and exercise plans to decrease stress and fatigue, and opening up drug and alcohol counselling services, among others. Developing a supportive workplace culture is key to preventing addiction in the petroleum industry, and it is important for both employers and employees to thrive in this culture.
Furthermore, to tackle the culture of stigma, companies are now also creating their own channels of communication for affected workers, as well as providing easy access to health services. Including the partners of affected workers can also help to provide them with support and encourage them to seek help.
Though this is progress, much more is still be done. Addiction in the petroleum industry remains a concerning and growing issue that needs to be addressed. Companies must take all necessary steps to educate and protect their workers, and other sectors should look to the petroleum industry in order to avoid similar issues. It is also crucial that the prevailing cultures of the petroleum industry evolve in order to really make a difference and encourage those affected to seek help.