The utilities industry plays a vital role in our daily lives, ensuring that we have uninterrupted access to electricity, water, and other essential services. However, for workers in this industry, the scorching summer months in Texas can pose significant health and safety risks. To help ensure the well-being of on-site workers, we have compiled a list of the top 10 safety tips to follow during hot Texas summers.
- Stay Hydrated: With temperatures soaring in Texas, it’s crucial to stay hydrated throughout the day. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after work. Avoid caffeinated and sugary beverages as they can dehydrate you further. Encourage regular water breaks and make it a habit to drink water every 15-20 minutes.
- Wear Appropriate Clothing: Choose lightweight, loose-fitting clothing made of breathable fabrics like cotton to help keep your body cool. Additionally, wear a wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses to protect your face and eyes from the sun’s harmful rays.
- Apply Sunscreen: Never underestimate the power of the Texas sun. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF rating before heading out to work. Reapply every two hours, especially if you’re sweating profusely. Sunburn can not only be painful but can also increase the risk of heat-related illnesses.
- Take Regular Breaks: Take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas to give your body a chance to cool down. Overexertion in extreme heat can lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Utilize rest periods to rest, rehydrate, and replenish your energy.
- Know the Signs of Heat-Related Illnesses: Educate yourself and your colleagues about the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Look out for symptoms like dizziness, nausea, headaches, rapid heartbeat, and profuse sweating. Promptly report any concerns to supervisors and seek medical attention if necessary.
- Use Cooling Measures: Implement cooling measures to combat the heat. Use fans, misting stations, or portable air conditioners in break areas to provide relief. Encourage workers to use cooling towels or ice packs on their necks or wrists to lower body temperature. These measures can make a significant difference in preventing heat-related illnesses.
- Schedule Work Wisely: Plan work schedules around the hottest parts of the day. Whenever possible, schedule physically demanding tasks for the cooler morning hours or late afternoon. Adjusting work hours can minimize the risk of heat-related issues and ensure optimal productivity.
- Monitor Humidity Levels: While the Texas heat can be brutal, high humidity levels can exacerbate the situation. Keep an eye on the heat index, which factors in both temperature and humidity. When the heat index reaches dangerous levels, take extra precautions and consider rescheduling or limiting outdoor work.
- Create Awareness and Training Programs: Regularly conduct safety meetings to raise awareness about heat-related hazards and educate workers on preventive measures. Provide training on recognizing the signs of heat-related illnesses and the proper response protocols. Encourage open communication channels for reporting concerns or seeking assistance.
- Maintain Emergency Response Plans: Prepare and maintain comprehensive emergency response plans that address heat-related emergencies. Ensure that all workers are aware of the procedures to follow in case of a heat-related illness or injury. This includes having access to first aid kits, emergency contacts, and transportation arrangements for medical emergencies.
So keep safety in your mind all the time this summer, and let’s make sure we’re all safe and healthy to enjoy the warm weekends.
We’ll be back with more advice this time next week.
The United States LNG sector has experienced significant growth and transformation over the past decade, becoming a vital component of the country’s energy landscape. The current state of the US LNG sector reflects a promising future, driven by abundant natural gas resources, expanding infrastructure, and increasing global demand for cleaner energy sources.
One of the key factors contributing to the growth of the US LNG sector is the development of various LNG projects across the country. Operational projects like Sabine Pass LNG, Cameron LNG and Calcasieu Pass LNG in Louisiana, Cove Point LNG in Maryland, and Corpus Christi LNG in Texas have played a crucial role in establishing the US as a prominent LNG exporter. These projects have contributed to job creation, economic growth, and enhanced energy security.
Additionally, there are several ongoing and planned LNG projects that indicate a promising future for the sector. Projects such as Calcasieu Pass 2, Commonwealth LNG and Cameron LNG Expansion in Louisiana, and Rio Grande and Texas LNG projects in South Texas.
Existing facilities such as Cheniere’s at Sabine Pass and Corpus Christi in Texas, Freeport LNG south of Houston, Texas, Cameron LNG in Louisiana, and Elba Island LNG in Georgia are actively or planning to expand their export capacity.
Moreover, new projects like Golden Pass LNG export terminal in Texas and Plaquemines LNG in Louisiana are under construction, further bolstering the growth of the US LNG sector. These projects demonstrate sustained investment and the strong potential for continued expansion.
The development and operation of LNG projects require a diverse range of skilled professionals, leading to significant job opportunities in various sectors. Let’s explore some of the different kinds of jobs available in the LNG sector:
Engineering: LNG projects rely heavily on engineering expertise. Engineers are involved in various aspects, including process engineering, mechanical engineering, civil engineering, electrical engineering, and instrumentation engineering. They are responsible for designing and optimizing the infrastructure, ensuring safety and reliability, and overseeing project execution.
Construction, Commissioning and Project Management: The construction and commissioning phases of LNG projects requires a substantial workforce. Project managers, construction managers, supervisors, and workers collaborate to ensure the timely and efficient completion of the infrastructure. These roles involve coordinating different teams, managing resources, and ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations.
Operations and Maintenance: Once the LNG facilities are operational, a dedicated workforce is required for day-to-day operations and maintenance. Jobs in this sector include operators, technicians, mechanics, and maintenance personnel. These professionals ensure the smooth functioning of LNG terminals, monitor equipment performance, conduct inspections, and perform necessary maintenance tasks.
Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE): The LNG industry places a high priority on maintaining health, safety, and environmental standards. HSE professionals play a critical role in implementing and monitoring safety protocols, conducting risk assessments, managing emergency response procedures, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
Logistics and Supply Chain: The transportation and logistics of LNG involve specialized roles. Jobs in this sector include supply chain managers, logistics coordinators, vessel operators, and terminal operators. These professionals are responsible for coordinating the movement of LNG from production facilities to export terminals and managing storage, shipping, and distribution logistics.
Research and Development: With the growing focus on technological advancements and environmental sustainability, there is a need for researchers and scientists in the LNG sector. These professionals work on developing innovative processes, improving efficiency, and addressing environmental concerns associated with LNG production, transportation, and utilization.
As the US LNG sector continues to expand, job creation is expected to remain robust, benefiting both the local and national economies. These employment opportunities span various skill levels, from highly technical engineering roles to skilled labor positions, providing a diverse range of career paths for individuals interested in the energy sector.
In conclusion, the US LNG sector is currently thriving, driven by operational projects and a pipeline of ongoing and planned developments. The sector offers a wide array of job opportunities, ranging from engineering and construction to operations, maintenance, and logistics. The growth of the US LNG sector creates economic benefits, enhances energy security, and contributes to job growth.
This week our teams were involved in a National Safety Stand Down for Fall protection awareness.
According to OSHA statistics, fatalities caused by falls remain the leading cause of death for construction employees, accounting for 378 of the 986 construction fatalities recorded in 2021 (BLS data).
The National Safety Stand-Down raises fall hazard awareness across the country in an effort to stop fall fatalities and injuries.
Training was given by 3M who explained fall calculation and proper harness and lanyard inspections. The session included ‘Drop Tests’ which illustrate how impacts from height affect the human body.
“We’re grateful to the team at 3M for their input, and to everyone who attended the training,” said John Benavides, of Renegade Group’s Safety team.
“This is a critical issue for the construction industry. Fatalities from falls are preventable through a strong safety culture based on awareness and compliance. We continue to do everything we can to assure our teams are safe in the field.”
More information from OSHA:
A Safety Stand-Down is a voluntary event for employers to talk directly to employees about safety. Any workplace can hold a stand-down by taking a break to focus on “Fall Hazards” and reinforcing the importance of “Fall Prevention”. Employers of companies not exposed to fall hazards, can also use this opportunity to have a conversation with employees about the other job hazards they face, protective methods, and the company’s safety policies and goals. It can also be an opportunity for employees to talk to management about fall and other job hazards they see.
Hugh will join Renegade’s Employee Services team in Fort Worth, where he will work to support each of our core sectors.
It’s a fast-paced period in the energy industry. Our clients are busier than ever and there’s increasing competition for the best technical and commercial talent.
As Renegade Group grows, we’re continuing to add new consultants to the team to support our clients and help us deliver more.
“We’re looking forward to having Hugh’s experience and ability on the Team,” said Mike Johnson, Renegade’s COO.
“He has so much to bring to the team here, and we can’t wait for our customers to meet him and to see what he can do.”
Hugh has spent twelve years in the recruitment industry serving energy clients including Exxon, BP and Hess.
He graduated Baylor University with a degree in Business Administration.
Contact us today to meet Hugh and find out what he can do for you.
Earlier this year, we began working with Amaanah Services to supply laptops to young refugees working to graduate High School and find themselves a place in college.
In many cases, the opportunities available to this community are limited by financial barriers and a lack of resources and equipment.
For refugee kids fleeing war, famine and oppression, a laptop can be a vital lifeline. Internet access opens up a world of educational resources, helping them develop their language skills and increase their chance of graduating alongside their peers in the local community.
Amaanah Services provides in-class teaching assistance to Texas school districts, helping to nurture and support children as they acclimatize to their new surroundings.
Kader received a Renegade laptop and is attending Lone Star College this year.
Amaanah was founded in 2008, when a group of students from the University of Houston sought to address the needs of Houston refugee families, mothers, and children.
The charity now has 15 years experience helping families build a home in Texas, offering long-term programs to help refugees become fully self sufficient.
To find out more, contact us or visit www.amaanahservices.org
Albert joins us as a Recruitment Consultant in our Houston office, where he will support our customers in Energy and LNG.
“Albert is a great addition to the team,” said Christian De La Rosa, Renegade’s Regional Manager for the Gulf Coast.
“He brings additional energy and experience to our Houston operation. We’re looking forward to introducing him to our customers and partners in the region; we know he has a lot to offer them as they work with Renegade to build their teams for 2023.”
Albert is a graduate from the University of Houston and a lifelong resident of the Bayou city. His recent experience includes technical recruitment for a major US agency.
Renegade Group specializes in providing first class manpower to the Utilities and Energy industries across the US.
To speak to Albert and find out what he can do for you, contact us today.
Bob joins us with twenty-five years of experience recruiting senior professionals in the global energy industry.
Bob began his recruitment career in London in the 1990s, after spending his early life on the London futures exchange. He worked for ten years in England on a variety of major EPC and infrastructure projects, including London Underground and High-Speed 1, the UK’s first high speed rail project.
Born and raised in Chicago, Bob returned to America in 2006, settling with his family in Houston. He has worked as Lead Recruiter on Oil & Gas and LNG projects for Bechtel, Motiva and NextDecade.
“It’s very exciting to have Bob with us,” said Mike Johnson, COO of Renegade Group.
“He is a well known fixture in our industry, and his knowledge and experience will be invaluable in helping our clients hire the people they need.”
Bob will be based in our Houston office, and will service projects across energy and LNG.
We want to thank everyone who has been part of this ongoing effort.
Three of the recipients of laptops began their studies last week at Lonestar College, while another is on the road to the East Coast to begin a soccer scholarship in the Carolinas.
We wish them all the very best with their work and we hope to see many more young people take this critical step in their education.
If you’d like to help by donating a laptop, please get in touch with us.
You can visit Amaanah Refugee Services to find out more about our non-profit partner.
A huge round of applause for the awesome teams at 76, Motiva and Lonestar College who came together to give these guys the opportunity to realize their dream of a college education.
The invasion of Ukraine has created 8 million new refugees. They join a diaspora of nearly 100 million refugees left without homes by war, political violence and famine.
A huge proportion of those affected are children. Through the UNHCR Refugee resettlement program, some of these children arrive here with us in Texas. Many are alone, vulnerable and lacking practical and emotional support. As parents, and as Americans, we find the thought of our own children being in this position unthinkable.
Today, Renegade Group is announcing two new initiatives to make our own small contribution to supporting these kids.
Firstly, we’re partnering with Houston-based Amaanah Refugee Services to help provide computer equipment to young people to help them with their studies at school here in America. Amaanah provides in-classroom assistance for refugee children to make sure they don’t fall behind while they learn a new language. We’ll be working with our partners and friends on a laptop drive to supply as many computers as we can this summer, ready for the kids starting American schools in the fall. We’ll also be helping to spread the word about the dangers of human trafficking in our own state.
Laptop Drive
If you have an old laptop in good condition that you no longer need, please consider giving it to us. We’ll get it to a young refugee in Texas who needs it. Computers and Internet access can be transformational for young people who are separated from friends and family and unable to speak the language. Contact us if you can help.
Human Trafficking Awareness
We’ve spent the last two months having stickers with the national Human Trafficking hotline added to every vehicle in our fleet. Human Traffickers prey upon the most vulnerable people in society, and the refugee community is one of these groups. The hotline, operated by the Polaris Project, gives victims of trafficking a place to find emergency support and advice on escaping their situation.
Being good neighbors is a key part of Renegade’s mission. Every child deserves a safe environment, food, shelter and a chance to receive an education.
We won’t stand by while children suffer in our own community. We’ll be promoting these initiatives over the next few months. Join us, and help share the message.
We’re grateful to all the people across the USA who works tirelessly to keep our country running.
Our Utilities Division is constantly working to support local communities across America, installing, maintaining and repairing the infrastructure that keeps us all online and connected. It’s vital work they do.
There are over 80,000 linemen currently working in the US; the largest number are in Texas, where Renegade is headquartered.
So here’s to all the Linemen, whether you work for us or for someone else.
We appreciate you.
We’re always hiring; talk to us if we can help you find work. Contact us here, or browse our open jobs.