The Effects of Casualisation on Mental Wellbeing and Risk Management in the Offshore Oil and Gas Industry

Abstract

This qualitative study was conducted with the aim of identifying psychosocial hazards in Australian offshore oil and gas facilities. Twenty-nine offshore oil and gas workers were interviewed via video link. Results indicated that, apart from the presence of a high-risk work environment as a source of mental and physical strain, there are organisational-specific stressors that cause workers' significant distress. Research results from NVivo analysis revealed that casualisation of the workforce was a major psychosocial hazard for offshore oil and gas workers, which resulted in feelings of insecurity, vulnerability and disconnection from work teams. In addition, a lack of stable income, an absence of opportunities to plan for the future and unsettled living arrangements worsen an already precarious existence. Findings show that a culture of blame and fear persists in some organisations, along with a lack of accountability and fear of making mistakes. The process of hiring, firing and rehiring was found to be a common practice by organisations in order to avoid their duty under the Fair Work Act amendments to offer casual conversion to their employees. Findings can be used to help inform organisational policies and assist in the development of risk control measures to minimise psychosocial hazards for offshore workers.