Evaluating the Current Level of Safety and Health Practices in the Upstream Sector of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry-A Review

This study investigates the current state of safety and health practices in the Nigerian oil and gas industry, with a particular focus on the Niger Delta region. Recognized for its hazardous operations and significant economic contributions, the sector faces persistent risks such as oil spills, gas leaks, and equipment failures. The study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and severity of these risks and examine the effectiveness of risk-based safety strategies employed by companies to mitigate accidents and enhance worker safety. By addressing critical gaps in safety practices, this research contributes to the growing discourse on occupational health and safety in high-risk industries. A quantitative research design was employed, utilizing structured questionnaires to gather data from 300 industry professionals, including workers and stakeholders with direct experience in risk assessment. The study adopted purposive sampling to ensure respondents had sufficient expertise, and data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequency tables, means, and standard deviations. Risk matrices further classified hazards based on their likelihood and severity, providing a systematic prioritization of safety concerns. The findings reveal a high prevalence of risks such as oil spills, gas leaks, and structural failures, exacerbated by aging infrastructure and inadequate maintenance practices. Despite efforts to implement risk-based safety strategies, inconsistencies persist in areas such as environmental risk consideration and emergency preparedness. While many organizations adhere to safety standards, gaps in compliance and enforcement remain significant challenges. The study highlights the importance of adopting advanced safety monitoring systems, enhancing employee training, and fostering stronger leadership involvement to address these issues.