The Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) has urged oil and gas companies to review and strengthen their compensation policies beyond statutory requirements to ensure adequate support for families of workers killed or permanently disabled in accidents.
Current Status of Compensation Policies
While several companies have already enhanced their voluntary compensation packages following PNGRB interventions and continued follow-up, the regulator stated that some entities have yet to adequately revise their compensation frameworks. PNGRB has also asked companies to take measures to strengthen safety culture, supervision, training, and competency-building, with the ultimate goal of achieving zero incidents in the sector.
Transparency and Industry Practices
The regulator is hosting details of voluntary compensation policies of major companies on its website, categorizing them into five groups based on prevailing industry practices. PNGRB said, “... all entities are once again urged to review their compensation structure/policy over and above the statutory requirements, and adopt improved practices so as to ensure adequate compensation to contract workmen/labour in case of fatality or permanent disability.”
While statutory compensation is assured, voluntary compensation also forms a significant support for aggrieved families. However, PNGRB noted that these additional payouts in cases of fatality and permanent disability vary significantly across the sector, despite many affected workers being the sole breadwinners of their families, making it a “serious welfare and social concern.” To encourage better welfare practices, PNGRB has been publicly disclosing compensation policies of companies on its portal to create transparency and motivate entities to review and enhance their own policies in line with best industry practices.
Follow-Up and Future Actions
PNGRB said, “Pursuant to the above initiatives, and as regular follow-up and persuasion by PNGRB, several entities have improved their voluntary compensation policies. However, a number of entities are yet to undertake adequate revision of their compensation frameworks, and PNGRB shall continue to regularly follow up with such entities so as to encourage uniform alignment with fair and adequate industry practices.”
The regulator emphasized the importance of continuous improvement in safety measures and compensation to protect workers and their families, aiming for a sector-wide standard that ensures fair treatment.
