Chapter 1: My First Rodeo
In this chapter, author Paul Carter introduces himself and his background as the son of a welder and his own experience working on oil rigs. He describes his first job on a rig in Mexico, where he learns quickly the harsh realities of the industry and the importance of safety and teamwork. He also humorously recounts his first time trying to operate a crane and causing chaos on the rig.
Real Example: When I was a fresh graduate, I landed a job on an offshore rig in the North Sea. I was excited and nervous, not knowing what to expect. On my first day, I was shown around and introduced to my crewmates. I was assigned to be a floorhand, responsible for general maintenance and cleaning of the rig.
The experienced driller took me under his wing and taught me the basics of rig life, including the importance of safety procedures. On the third day, I was tasked with operating the crane to lift equipment onto the rig. I had never operated a crane in my life, and my heart was racing as I sat in the operator's seat. Everyone was watching, and I didn't want to mess up.
As I tried to follow the instructions, I accidentally swung the crane too fast, causing a piece of equipment to swing wildly and almost hit a crew member. Thankfully, no one was hurt, but it was a wake-up call for me. I realized the enormous responsibility that comes with working on a rig and the importance of proper training and following safety protocols.
Chapter 2: Lake of Fire
In this chapter, Carter shares his experience working on a rig in the Lake of Maracaibo in Venezuela. He talks about the extreme heat, the dangerous working conditions, and the distinct culture of the rig workers. He also describes his time off the rig, where he would explore the local town and encounter some bizarre and humorous situations.
Real Example: During my time working on a rig in Venezuela, I learned firsthand the challenges of working in extreme heat. The Lake of Maracaibo was notorious for its scorching temperatures, and the only relief we had was the occasional strong wind that blew in from the lake.
As we worked on the rig, the sun beat down on us relentlessly, and we had to wear protective gear to avoid sunburn and heatstroke. We also had to be extra cautious with our equipment, as the heat could cause malfunctions and breakdowns. Despite the challenges, the team I worked with had a strong bond, and we often relied on humor to get through the long, hot days.
On my days off, I would often explore the nearby town, where I encountered some strange but amusing situations. Once, I went to a local bar for a cold beer, and the bartender served it to me with a spoon in it. When I questioned him, he explained that it was customary to stir the beer due to the high heat. It was a peculiar but fun cultural experience I would have never encountered if not for my job on the rig.
Chapter 3: Galapagos of the Oil Industry
In this chapter, Carter shares his experience working on a rig in the North Atlantic, where he encounters some bizarre wildlife and learns about the importance of environmental protection. He also talks about the challenges of being away from home for long periods and how it affects his relationships and mental well-being.
Real Example: Working on a rig in the North Atlantic was like being on a remote island, surrounded by nothing but the vast ocean. The only visitors we had were the occasional seals and curious seabirds. I was amazed at the remarkable wildlife living in these harsh conditions and learned to appreciate the importance of preserving our oceans' ecosystems.
Being away from home for extended periods was also a challenge for me. I missed special occasions and milestones of my family and friends, and it affected my relationships. However, it also gave me a newfound appreciation for the simple things in life, like a warm shower or a home-cooked meal. It was a constant battle between the thrill and experiences of working on a rig and the sacrifices and toll it took on my personal life.
Overall, the first three chapters of "Don't Tell Mum I Work on the Rigs" provide a glimpse into the intense and unpredictable world of oil rigs. From humorous anecdotes to serious reflections, Carter's storytelling captures the unique and often misunderstood culture of rig workers and the challenging nature of their work.
