LAUSR

Providers caring for workers in the oil and gas extraction industry can reduce the risks of workplace sudden cardiovascular events and death by helping the employer with, 1) promoting evidence-based chronic disease interventions, 2) controlling hazardous exposures, 3) conducting periodic medical evaluations, 4) ensuring an automated external defibrillator (AED) is onsite and employees are trained in its use, and 5) ensuring that employees are not working alone. Objective The aim of the study is to explore personal and work factors related to fatal cardiac events among oil and gas extraction (OGE) workers. Methods The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health Fatalities in Oil and Gas Extraction database was reviewed to identify fatal cardiac events among OGE workers from 2014 through 2019. A case series design was used to review case files, provide descriptive statistics, and summarize the findings. Results There were 75 fatalities identified, including 55 (73%) with sufficient information for review. Of the 55 workers, 18 (33%) worked alone. Thirty-six fatal cardiac events (66%) were unwitnessed by a coworker. Toxicology findings suggested some possible exposures to hydrogen sulfide or hydrocarbon gases or vapors. Missing data were common. Conclusions This study identified the need for cardiovascular disease prevention and treatment, emergency preparedness, lone worker programs, medical screening, and enhanced exposure control in the OGE industry.