Is smoking banned for the workers on oil rigs?

Smoking isn't banned. There are designated safe smoking areas. Typically, lighters are banned and only book matches allowed. The reason is that if there is a gas leak. With some platforms producing 5,000 psi of gas in some of the pipes, it would make for an impressive fireball. read more

There will be no smoking allowed on the drilling rig itself. Smoking is allowed in safe areas. That is, in the vicinity of the living quarters which are removed from the actual rig (derrick). read more

Interestingly enough, smoking is not banned on offshore oil rigs, but smokers must be careful to smoke only in the designated areas to avoid any explosions. The offshore rig offers a unique commute experience. read more