Why are SSE programs important in oil and gas?

Inexperienced workers account for over 40% of workplace injuries in oil and gas. SSE programs reduce this risk by ensuring new hires receive proper mentorship, understand job hazards, and develop safe work habits before working independently. Many operators require contractors to have documented SSE programs.

How long should an SSE program last?

The industry standard for SSE programs is 90 days, though this can be extended if the employee needs additional time to demonstrate competency. Some high-risk positions may require longer observation periods. The program should include weekly mentor observations and progressive responsibility.

What should be documented in SSE observations?

SSE observations should document: tasks performed, safe behaviors observed, unsafe behaviors or areas for improvement, corrective actions taken, training completed, and an assessment of readiness for independent work. Both mentor and supervisor signatures should be obtained.

Who can serve as an SSE mentor?

SSE mentors should be experienced workers with at least 3 years in similar roles, a clean safety record, and demonstrated competency in the tasks they will supervise. Mentors should receive training on observation techniques and documentation requirements.

Is an SSE program required by OSHA?

While OSHA does not specifically mandate SSE programs, OSHA 29 CFR 1910.132 requires employers to ensure workers are properly trained. SSE programs demonstrate compliance with training requirements and are considered industry best practice. Many major operators require contractors to have documented SSE programs.

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Short Service Employee (SSE) Tracker

Q: What is a Short Service Employee (SSE) program?

A Short Service Employee (SSE) program, also called a Green Hat or Green Hand program, is a structured 90-day safety mentorship program for new oilfield workers. New employees are paired with experienced mentors who provide enhanced supervision, training, and regular safety observations until the employee demonstrates competency for independent work.

Track 90-day new hire observations for your Green Hat / Green Hand program. Document mentor observations, training completion, and readiness assessments.

Industry Best Practice

40%+ of injuries involve inexperienced workers

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What is a Short Service Employee (SSE) Program?

A Short Service Employee (SSE) program, commonly called a Green Hat or Green Hand program, is a structured 90-day safety mentorship initiative for new oilfield workers. The name comes from the distinctive green hard hats worn by new employees to identify them as requiring additional supervision.

During the SSE period, new hires are paired with experienced mentors who provide enhanced supervision, hands-on training, and regular safety observations. This structured approach ensures new employees understand job hazards and develop safe work habits before operating independently.

Mentor Assignment

Each new hire is paired with an experienced mentor who has 3+ years in similar roles

90-Day Timeline

Weekly observations track progress until the employee demonstrates competency

Reduced Risk

Documented programs reduce injury rates by 50%+ for new employees

What to Track for Each SSE

Weekly Observations

Tasks performed and competency demonstrated
Safe behaviors observed during work
Areas for improvement and coaching provided
Corrective actions for unsafe behaviors

Training Modules

JSA/JHA completion and understanding
H2S awareness and emergency response
PPE requirements and proper usage
Job-specific safety procedures

Common SSE Program Failures

Mentor in Name Only

Assigning a mentor but not providing time for actual supervision and coaching

Missing Documentation

Failing to document observations, making the program unverifiable during audits

Premature Sign-Off

Rushing employees through the program without verifying competency

No Corrective Action

Identifying issues but not documenting how they were addressed

Frequently Asked Questions

Need to Track Multiple New Hires?

BasinCheck helps safety managers track SSE programs across crews, automate mentor assignments, and generate compliance reports. Operators can verify your training documentation instantly.

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