Wyoming Regulators Implement New Oil, Gas Rules

Wyoming regulators are implementing a rule requiring workers within 75 feet of an oil or natural gas well bore to wear fire-resistant clothing.

The Wyoming Occupational Safety and Health Administration said Monday it is implementing the new rule, along with another rule mandating shut-off devices on diesel engines used on drilling rigs. Gov. Matt Mead signed both rules into effect Jan. 8.

John Robitaille of the Wyoming Petroleum Association tells the Casper Star-Tribune that industry officials hope the rules do what they’re intended to do and protect workers from getting hurt on the job.

Some companies had said the clothes were too expensive to mandate.