(Source: The Dallas Morning News)
Industry leaders collaborate to prioritize road safety in the Permian Basin, ensuring both the well-being of workers and the sustainability of Texas’ energy production.
The Texas Oil & Gas Association (TXOGA) recently joined forces with the Permian Road Safety Coalition (PRSC) to host a Road Safety Luncheon Series in Andrews. This event sought to showcase the Texas oil and natural gas industry’s commitment to prioritizing road safety in the Permian Basin, arguably the most critical region for energy production that also experiences high rates of traffic incidents and fatalities.
As part of the luncheon, attendees were treated to a unique educational experience—a mock inspection of a semi-trailer truck conducted by Texas Department of Public Safety (TxDPS) state troopers. This hands-on demonstration provided invaluable insights into the stringent safety checks that are essential to maintaining safe driving conditions in the region. With the Permian Basin leading the state in crashes and fatalities, such initiatives are vital in reinforcing the safety-first mindset within the industry.
The event featured speakers who emphasized the direct link between road safety and the financial health of companies within the industry. Neal Carlton, President of TXOGA Insurance Agency, and Eric Bourquin, Vice President of Safety Services at Texas Mutual, discussed the substantial impact that unsafe driving behaviors can have on insurance rates. They also introduced innovative safety initiatives like TXOGA Safety Talks, designed to equip the workforce with safety tips and discussion points, ultimately aiming to enhance overall safety in the region.
TXOGA President Todd Staples took the opportunity to provide a broader perspective on the state of the Texas oil and natural gas industry. He highlighted the industry’s record-breaking contribution of $26.3 billion in state and local taxes and royalties in 2023, funds that are needed to support schools, roads, and emergency responders. However, Staples was clear in his message: the continued success and sustainability of oil and gas production in Texas depends on improving road safety in regions like the Permian Basin.
“Safety is paramount in the oil and natural gas industry, and the work of the PRSC is instrumental in reducing crashes and fatalities in the Permian region,” Staples emphasized. His call for increased collaboration between industry and government stakeholders reflects a shared responsibility to promote safe driving practices. “This partnership is crucial not only for the safety of the community, but also for the long-term viability of Texas’ natural resource production,” continued Staples.
At the end of the event, PRSC Executive Director Ellen K. Ramsey reiterated the importance of collective action in reducing road incidents in the Permian Basin. “We can drastically reduce the number of crashes and fatalities on Permian Basin roadways,” she said, calling for a united effort for all involved.
This event highlighted the Texas oil and gas industry’s approach to addressing road safety challenges in the Permian Basin. By fostering strong partnerships and promoting best practices, the industry seeks to not only safeguard its workforce and residents in the Permian Basin and other energy production areas of the state, but also ensure that Texas remains a leader in responsible and sustainable energy production.
