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Have you or a loved one been seriously injured or killed while working as a roustabout on an oil rig or in any other capacity? If so, you should contact us immediately for a free consultation. You may be entitled to financial compensation for your injuries and our law firm can help.
Schmidt & Clark, LLP is dedicated to protecting the rights of American oil field workers and is one of the only firms willing to handle this type of complex litigation throughout the entire United States.
What Does a Roustabout Do?
Roustabouts are maintenance workers who focus on making sure oil and gas rigs are running safely and as expected.
They are essentially the “boots on the ground,” responsible for making sure oil wells are operating efficiently and constantly. Roustabouts play a critical role in keeping oil and gas rigs running smoothly.
This physically demanding yet rewarding career offers hands-on experience, career advancement opportunities, and the chance to work in diverse environments, from offshore platforms to onshore drilling sites.
Key Responsibilities: Keeping Operations Running Smoothly
A roustabout’s daily tasks involve a mix of maintenance, safety procedures, and teamwork. Their work ensures that oil wells, pipelines, and drilling rigs remain fully functional.
- Maintenance and Repair – Roustabouts inspect, repair, and maintain equipment such as oil wellheads, saltwater disposal pumps, and lead lines.
- Safety Protocols – Handling dangerous chemicals and heavy machinery requires strict adherence to safety measures to prevent accidents.
- General Rig Maintenance – Tasks range from cleaning rig floors and ensuring all equipment is in working order to troubleshooting mechanical issues that could disrupt operations.
Without roustabouts, drilling sites would quickly face mechanical failures and operational delays, making their contributions invaluable to the industry.
A Day in the Life of a Roustabout
A typical workday begins with safety meetings before moving on to physical labor and technical tasks.
- Morning Briefing – Each shift starts with a meeting to discuss daily tasks, identify hazards, and assign responsibilities.
- Equipment Checks – Regular inspections help detect potential malfunctions before they become serious issues.
- Hands-on Repairs and Maintenance – Whether tightening pipelines, repairing pumps, or assisting welders, roustabouts spend most of their day performing physically demanding tasks.
- Team Coordination – Effective communication is key to keeping the rig safe and operational, so roustabouts work closely with drillers, mechanics, and supervisors.
The job is labor-intensive but highly structured, ensuring that every aspect of the drilling process runs as smoothly as possible.
Career Progression: Opportunities for Advancement
For those willing to put in the effort, a career as a roustabout offers many growth opportunities. With experience and additional training, roustabouts can move into more specialized and higher-paying roles.
- Crew Leader or Lead Hand – After gaining hands-on experience, roustabouts can advance to leadership positions, overseeing small teams on the rig.
- Specialized Technician Roles – Opportunities exist to specialize in areas such as mechanical maintenance, welding, or electrical systems.
- Supervisory and Management Positions – Senior roles include rig supervisors or operations managers responsible for large-scale drilling operations.
Many industry veterans start as roustabouts before moving up the ranks, making this role an excellent entry point into the oil and gas industry.
Different Work Environments: Where Roustabouts Operate
Roustabouts work in a variety of settings, each with its own unique challenges:
- Onshore Oil Fields – Land-based drilling operations, often in remote locations.
- Offshore Platforms – Large structures stationed over the ocean, requiring specialized training for harsh marine environments.
- Mobile Drilling Units – Portable rigs that move between drilling locations, requiring adaptability and frequent travel.
Each environment demands a different approach, but the core responsibilities remain the same: maintaining equipment, ensuring safety, and keeping operations efficient.
Seasonal Work Patterns: Understanding the Industry’s Cycles
The demand for roustabouts fluctuates depending on weather conditions, oil prices, and drilling project schedules.
- Peak Seasons – When weather conditions are favorable, oil companies ramp up drilling projects, creating more job opportunities.
- Slow Periods – Harsh winter weather or economic downturns may temporarily reduce drilling operations, leading to seasonal employment shifts.
Understanding these cycles can help roustabouts plan their careers, pursue additional training, or explore different roles within the industry during slower seasons.
Safety First: Essential Training and Certifications for Roustabouts in the Oil and Gas Industry
In the high-risk world of oil and gas operations, safety is not just a priority—it is a necessity. Roustabouts work in hazardous environments where accidents can have severe consequences.
To ensure safety on the job, comprehensive training and strict adherence to industry regulations are essential. From mandatory certifications to emergency response procedures, this guide outlines the key safety measures every roustabout must follow.
Certifications and Training: Preparing for the Unexpected
To mitigate risks, roustabouts must complete several safety training programs and certifications before stepping onto a rig.
These credentials equip them with the knowledge and skills necessary to handle emergencies, protect themselves and their coworkers, and comply with industry standards.
Required Safety Certifications
Each certification plays a role in ensuring a safe working environment:
- Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification – Provides essential training on responding to medical emergencies, including CPR and first aid.
- Offshore Survival Certification – Mandatory for offshore workers, covering survival skills for emergencies such as fire safety and water rescues.
- HAZMAT Training – Teaches safe handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous materials, reducing exposure risks.
- Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET) – Prepares workers for offshore emergencies, including helicopter evacuation and life raft procedures[3][4].
- Helicopter Underwater Escape Training (HUET) – Required for personnel traveling to offshore rigs by helicopter, ensuring they can escape if an aircraft crashes into the water[3].
These certifications help prevent accidents and prepare workers to respond effectively in critical situations.
OSHA Regulations: Enforcing Workplace Safety
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) establishes industry standards that all oil and gas companies must follow to protect their employees.
Compliance with these regulations reduces the likelihood of accidents and ensures a safer work environment.
Key OSHA Requirements
- Hazard Communication Standard – Employers must properly label chemical hazards, provide Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), and train employees on hazardous substances.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Standards – Employers must supply and enforce the use of appropriate PPE, tailored to specific job tasks.
Failure to comply with OSHA regulations can lead to severe penalties for companies and increased workplace injuries for workers.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): A First Line of Defense
Proper PPE is essential for minimizing the risk of injury in hazardous environments.
Roustabouts are required to wear:
- Hard Hats – Protect against head injuries from falling objects.
- Steel-Toed Boots – Shield feet from heavy equipment and sharp debris.
- Gloves – Provide hand protection from rough surfaces and chemical exposure.
- Goggles or Safety Glasses – Prevent eye injuries from dust, debris, and chemicals.
- Respirators – Required when handling hazardous substances to prevent inhalation of toxic fumes.
Wearing PPE correctly can mean the difference between minor incidents and life-threatening injuries.
Emergency Preparedness: Responding to Critical Situations
Oil and gas environments demand constant vigilance and preparation for potential emergencies. The ability to respond quickly and effectively can save lives and prevent extensive damage.
Emergency Procedures
- Regular Drills – Conducting scheduled emergency response drills ensures that all crew members know their roles during crises such as fires, spills, or blowouts.
- Emergency Response Plans – Companies must have detailed protocols in place, outlining specific steps to follow during different types of emergencies.
By reinforcing emergency preparedness, companies can minimize chaos and improve response times when real-life situations occur.
Safety Training Programs: Ongoing Education for Risk Prevention
Beyond initial certifications, continuous training helps workers stay updated on evolving safety protocols and new industry regulations.
Essential Safety Training Programs
- BOSIET Program – Covers survival techniques, including evacuation procedures from helicopters and open-water rescues.
- IADC RigPass Certification – Focuses on well control principles, general rig operations, and overall hazard awareness.
Ongoing safety education ensures that workers remain prepared for the challenges they may face on the job.
Industry Best Practices: Creating a Culture of Safety
Safety in the oil and gas industry goes beyond regulations—it requires a culture of awareness and proactive risk management.
Leading companies implement best practices to prevent accidents and enhance operational efficiency.
Best Practices for a Safer Work Environment
- Regular Equipment Inspections – Routine maintenance and checks on machinery help detect potential failures before they cause accidents.
- Continuous Learning and Safety Culture – Encouraging workers to participate in training sessions and stay informed about the latest safety advancements improves overall workplace security.
- Strict Compliance with Safety Protocols – Following industry safety guidelines consistently prevents unnecessary risks.
By prioritizing these best practices, companies can create safer workplaces and protect the well-being of their employees.
The Hidden Dangers of Roustabout Work: Injury Risks and Industry Statistics
Roustabouts are the backbone of oil and gas operations, performing physically demanding tasks in environments filled with hazards.
While safety regulations and training programs have improved, the risk of injury remains a serious concern.
Understanding the most common types of injuries, recent trends, and global safety data can help highlight the urgent need for continuous safety improvements in the industry.
The Most Common Injuries in Roustabout Work
Due to the hands-on nature of their job, roustabouts frequently encounter hazardous situations that can lead to severe injuries.
The most common causes of workplace accidents include:
Being Struck by Falling Tools or Equipment (38% of Claims)
- Heavy equipment and tools are constantly in motion on an oil rig, posing a high risk of impact injuries.
- These accidents often result in concussions, traumatic brain injuries, and limb amputations.
Caught in Machinery or Equipment (14% of Claims)
- Moving parts, gears, and drilling components present a major hazard.
- Many incidents lead to crushing injuries, severe lacerations, or even amputations.
Falls (24% of Claims)
- Working at heights, on slippery surfaces, or in unstable conditions increases fall risks.
- Falls can cause spinal cord damage, head trauma, or fatalities.
Motor Vehicle Incidents (5% of Claims)
- Onshore oilfields and offshore rigs require frequent transportation, often in hazardous conditions.
- Vehicle-related accidents may result in broken bones, internal injuries, or long-term disabilities.
Burns and Oil Rig Fires (19% of Claims)
- Flammable substances and high-pressure systems create a fire risk, making burns a common workplace injury.
- The severity of these burns often requires extensive medical treatment and long-term recovery.
With such a high percentage of injuries resulting from preventable accidents, enforcing stricter safety protocols is essential to improving worker protection.
Injury Trends: How Dangerous is Roustabout Work?
Recent data shows that roustabouts face injury rates significantly higher than the national average:
- The nonfatal injury rate for roustabouts was 89.3 per 100,000 workers in 2020, compared to the national average of 25.54 per 100,000 workers.
- The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) ranks roustabouts among the most dangerous jobs, with some of the highest injury and fatality rates.
- A CDC report from 2014-2019 documented a concerning number of fatalities in the oil and gas extraction industry, reinforcing the need for improved safety measures.
These numbers indicate that despite advancements in technology and safety training, roustabouts remain at significant risk of injury.
Global Safety Insights: Learning from Industry Data
Safety trends in the oil and gas sector vary by region, but one consistent finding remains: rig workers, including roustabouts, continue to suffer from high rates of workplace injuries.
The International Association of Drilling Contractors (IADC) has reported both progress and ongoing concerns:
- Lost Time Incident (LTI) rates have improved, showing that industry-wide safety initiatives are making a difference.
- However, "Struck By" and "Caught Between" injuries remain among the most common workplace hazards, particularly involving:
- Fingers and hands, which are the most frequently injured body parts.
- Pipes, collars, tubulars, and casing, which contribute to many accident claims.
Even with advancements in workplace safety, the nature of roustabout work makes it inherently hazardous. These statistics emphasize the importance of continuous training, regular safety audits, and strict compliance with protective regulations.
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Understanding Roustabout Compensation: Pay, Benefits, and Perks
The oil and gas industry offers roustabouts a competitive compensation package, reflecting the physically demanding and high-risk nature of the job.
While most roustabouts earn hourly wages, their total income is often boosted by overtime pay, benefits, housing allowances, and travel reimbursements.
The following is a breakdown of how roustabouts are compensated and what factors influence their overall earnings.
How Roustabouts Are Paid: Hourly vs. Salary
Most roustabouts are paid on an hourly basis rather than a fixed salary.
The exact wage varies depending on the company, location, and level of experience:
- National Hourly Pay Range: $15.31 to $26.47 per hour.
- Higher Paying Companies: Employers like Diamond Offshore offer hourly rates of around $23.94 per hour.
- Annual Salary Estimates: Depending on experience and location, roustabouts can expect yearly earnings between $25,000 and $39,000.
Since the work schedule often includes long shifts in remote locations, roustabouts have ample opportunities to increase their earnings through overtime pay and other job-related perks.
Overtime Pay: A Major Income Booster
Due to the round-the-clock nature of oilfield operations, roustabouts frequently work more than the standard 40-hour workweek.
Overtime pay plays a significant role in increasing their overall earnings:
- Overtime Pay Rate: Typically 1.5 times the regular hourly wage.
- Average Overtime Earnings: Many roustabouts earn an additional $6,938 per year in overtime pay.
Working extended shifts can be physically exhausting, but for those looking to maximize their income, the overtime structure in the industry provides a valuable financial advantage.
Beyond the Paycheck: Benefits and Perks
Most companies provide comprehensive benefits packages to support their workforce.
While specific offerings vary by employer, common benefits include:
- Health Insurance – Medical, dental, and vision coverage to ensure workers have access to healthcare.
- Retirement Plans – 401(k) plans or pension programs to help employees save for the future.
- Work-Life Balance Programs – Some companies offer wellness programs, paid time off, and other incentives to improve job satisfaction.
These benefits make roustabout jobs more appealing, particularly for those looking for long-term career stability in the industry.
Housing and Travel Compensation: Covering the Costs of Remote Work
Given that many oilfield operations are in remote locations, companies often provide additional financial support for housing and travel:
- Housing Allowances: Some employers offer company-provided accommodations or stipends to cover lodging expenses near work sites.
- Travel Reimbursement: Workers commuting to offshore rigs or distant job sites may receive travel reimbursements, covering airfare, fuel, or other transport costs.
- On-Site Accommodations: Offshore workers typically have free lodging, meals, and other essentials provided during their work rotations.
For those working in isolated areas, these benefits significantly reduce living expenses and add extra value to their total compensation package.
Per Diem Allowances: Covering Daily Expenses
In some cases, roustabouts receive a per diem allowance to help cover food and incidental costs while working away from home.
This is especially common when accommodations and meals are not fully covered by the employer.
- Daily Allowance Rates: Vary by employer but typically include meal stipends and miscellaneous expenses.
- Tax-Free Benefit: In many cases, per diem payments are non-taxable, making them an additional financial perk.
For workers rotating between job sites, per diem rates can make a meaningful difference in managing day-to-day expenses.
Maximizing Earnings as a Roustabout
To make the most out of their earning potential, roustabouts can:
- Take Advantage of Overtime – Since overtime significantly increases annual income, opting for extra shifts can be beneficial.
- Seek Higher-Paying Companies – Employers like Seadrill and Transocean tend to offer more competitive wages.
- Look for Jobs with Housing and Travel Benefits – Reducing out-of-pocket expenses on accommodations and transportation can increase take-home pay.
- Gain Experience and Certifications – Additional training and certifications can lead to higher-paying positions within the industry.
By strategically navigating job opportunities and employer offerings, roustabouts can maximize their total earnings while benefiting from the industry's strong compensation structure.
Roustabouts rely on a diverse range of tools and equipment to carry out their physically demanding and high-risk responsibilities.
From traditional hand tools to advanced monitoring systems, the right equipment ensures efficiency, safety, and compliance with industry standards.
In addition to using these tools, roustabouts must follow strict maintenance protocols and safety procedures to minimize operational risks.
Advanced Technologies Transforming Roustabout Work
The oil and gas industry is integrating more advanced technologies to improve safety and efficiency.
Roustabouts today work with:
- Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS) – Digital platforms used to track equipment performance, log maintenance records, and schedule repairs.
- Predictive Maintenance Tools – Sensors and real-time data analytics help detect potential mechanical failures before they occur, preventing costly downtime.
- Automated Monitoring Systems – IoT-based sensors track critical metrics like pressure, temperature, and structural integrity, reducing manual inspections and improving workplace safety.
These modern innovations are streamlining operations and reducing mechanical failures, making the job safer and more precise.
Essential Equipment Used on the Job
Roustabouts handle a variety of tools and machinery daily, ensuring rigs and drilling sites remain fully operational.
Some of the most critical equipment includes:
- Air and Electric Hoists – Used for lifting heavy materials and equipment on-site.
- Oxygen Sensors – Essential for monitoring air quality in confined spaces and detecting hazardous gas leaks.
- Deck Grinders – Used to smooth surfaces before applying protective coatings or performing maintenance.
- Safety Harnesses – Prevent falls when working at elevated heights.
- Basic Hand Tools – Wrenches, pliers, screwdrivers, and hammers are used for assembling, repairing, and maintaining rig components.
Using these tools requires skill, experience, and ongoing training to ensure proper handling and safety compliance.
Maintaining Equipment for Longevity and Safety
Regular maintenance plays a crucial role in preventing breakdowns and ensuring that equipment operates efficiently.
Maintenance routines typically include:
- Daily Inspections – Conducting quick checks on machinery to identify early signs of wear and tear.
- Routine Lubrication – Ensuring that moving parts operate smoothly to prevent excessive wear.
- Scheduled Overhauls – Conducting manufacturer-recommended servicing and full system inspections at predetermined intervals.
By following structured maintenance schedules, roustabouts reduce the risk of costly breakdowns and improve workplace safety.
Built-in Safety Features for High-Risk Environments
To reduce accidents, most modern oilfield equipment comes with integrated safety features:
- Emergency Shutdown Systems – Automatically deactivate machinery if unsafe conditions (such as pressure overloads) are detected.
- Alarm & Warning Systems – Sensors alert operators to excessive temperatures, vibrations, or hazardous conditions.
- Reinforced Personal Protective Gear – Anti-slip gloves, impact-resistant helmets, and flame-resistant clothing provide additional protection in hazardous conditions.
These safety measures help minimize the risks associated with heavy machinery operation and prevent workplace injuries.
By prioritizing both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience, companies create a safer and more efficient workforce.
What to do if You've Been Injured on an Oil Rig
Working as a roustabout on an oil or gas rig comes with significant risks. If you suffer an injury on the job, understanding your legal rights, workplace protections, and avenues for compensation is crucial.
Whether you are covered under workers' compensation laws, maritime protections, or union representation, knowing how to navigate the legal system can ensure you receive the benefits and compensation you deserve.
Immediate Steps After an Injury
- Seek Medical Attention Immediately – Even if your injury seems minor, it’s essential to get a medical evaluation. Some injuries worsen over time, and delaying treatment can weaken your legal claim.
- Document Everything – Write down details of the accident, including what happened, where it occurred, any equipment involved, and witness information. Memory can fade, and detailed records will strengthen your case.
- Do Not Sign Anything Without Legal Advice – Employers, insurance adjusters, or attorneys may try to get you to admit fault or accept a low-ball settlement. Consult an attorney before signing any documents.
- Report the Injury – Follow workplace reporting procedures, ensuring that your employer documents the incident properly.
Workers' Compensation for Roustabouts
Most roustabouts working in onshore oil fields are covered by state workers' compensation laws, which provide benefits such as:
- Medical Coverage – Pays for necessary treatment, surgeries, and rehabilitation costs.
- Lost Wages – Covers a percentage of income if you are unable to work.
- Disability Benefits – Provides compensation for temporary or permanent disabilities resulting from the injury.
However, workers' compensation does not cover offshore oil rig workers, who fall under maritime law protections instead.
Maritime Law Protections for Offshore Roustabouts
If you work on an offshore rig, your legal protections fall under federal maritime law, rather than standard workers' compensation.
The following laws provide compensation for injured offshore roustabouts:
The Jones Act
- Covers injuries for workers classified as seamen—those who spend at least 30% of their time working aboard a navigable vessel.
- Allows injured workers to sue their employer for negligence if unsafe conditions contributed to the injury.
- Compensation includes medical care, lost wages, and damages for pain and suffering.
The Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act (LHWCA)
- Covers offshore oil rig workers who do not qualify as “seamen” under the Jones Act.
- Provides medical care, wage replacement, and disability compensation.
- Does not require proof of employer negligence, making it easier to claim benefits.
The Death on the High Seas Act (DOHSA)
- Provides compensation to families of offshore workers who die in accidents beyond three miles off the U.S. coast.
These maritime laws offer protections that standard workers’ compensation does not, ensuring offshore roustabouts have legal avenues to seek damages.
Union Representation & Workplace Rights
Many oil and gas workers belong to labor unions, such as:
- The United Steelworkers (USW) – Represents many oil industry workers, including rig operators and maintenance crews.
- The International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) – Covers workers who handle heavy machinery and equipment on drilling sites.
Union Protections Include:
- Safer working conditions through negotiated safety protocols.
- Legal representation in disputes with employers.
- Collective bargaining for better wages, benefits, and protections.
If you are a union member, report any workplace hazards to your union representative to ensure concerns are formally addressed.
How to Report a Workplace Injury
Following proper reporting procedures is crucial for securing benefits and protecting your legal rights.
Steps include:
- Notify Your Employer – Most companies require that injuries be reported within 24 to 72 hours.
- Submit an Official Report – Many employers require written documentation, so request a copy of any injury report.
- Consult an Attorney if the Claim is Denied – If your employer refuses to acknowledge the injury or delays benefits, seek legal help immediately.
Legal Remedies & Compensation
If you experience delayed benefits, employer negligence, or wrongful termination due to an injury, legal remedies may include:
- Filing a Lawsuit Against Your Employer – If unsafe conditions caused your injury, you can sue under the Jones Act or personal injury law.
- Filing a Third-Party Lawsuit – If faulty equipment or a subcontractor’s negligence caused the accident, you may be able to sue the manufacturer or third-party contractor.
- Seeking Disability Benefits – Long-term disabilities may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or private disability benefits.
The law firm of Schmidt & Clark, LLP specializes in oil rig injury cases, representing roustabouts and other oilfield workers who have suffered injuries due to dangerous working conditions, employer negligence, or defective equipment.
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FAQs
What should I do if my employer retaliates against me for reporting an injury or unsafe conditions?
If your employer retaliates against you for reporting an injury or unsafe working conditions, document the retaliation and contact an attorney immediately. Retaliation is illegal, and you may have grounds for additional legal claims against your employer.
How do I find a qualified attorney for my Roustabout lawsuit?
Look for attorneys who specialize in workplace injury or personal injury law and have experience handling cases related to the oil and gas industry. Check their track record of success in similar cases and read client reviews to ensure they are reputable.
What are the most common causes of accidents involving Roustabouts?
Common causes of accidents include inadequate safety training, lack of proper safety equipment, poorly maintained machinery, insufficient supervision, failure to follow safety protocols, and hazardous working conditions.
How can I prevent injuries while working as a Roustabout?
To prevent injuries, follow all safety protocols, use provided safety equipment, participate in regular safety training, report any hazards or unsafe conditions immediately, and stay alert and aware of your surroundings at all times.
What's the difference between a Roustabout and a Roughneck?
The difference between a roustabout and a roughneck is that a roughneck is a skilled member of a drilling crew, and they are employed in the drilling of oil wells. Roustabouts are unskilled laborers, however, they often take work outside of drilling operations and sometimes became more permanent oil-town residents.
Does being a Roustabout require going to school?
Being a roustabout does not require going to school. Usually, most candidates have at least a high school diploma.
How many hours do roustabouts work?
Roustabouts typically work 12-hour (or more) shifts for two weeks straight. However, if you’re young, in good health, and in good shape, getting work as a roustabout can pay well.
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