Pressure in the rock bed is often sufficient enough to force the petroleum up to the platforms. However, sometimes extraction is only possible by pumping the petroleum to the surface or by maintaining pressure by injecting water or gas into the rock bed. Again, care is taken to make sure that sound environmental practices are maintained by operators. The petroleum recovered is subsequently sent to a refinery for processing. The crude oil is broken down via a process called catalytic cracking to form petrol, diesel, kerosene or heating oil.
Gas is supplied for both industrial and domestic use.
You probably use natural gas in your home for heating or cooking. In industry, natural gas is widely used for the generation of electricity. Occupational Safety and Health - Mining Improving and monitoring safety aspects of mining and exploration operations is one of the prime objectives of the Department of Minerals and Energy. As such, the Department administers the Mines Safety and Inspection Act to ensure the safety and health of the 40,000 strong mining workforce in Western Australia. Occupational safety and health standards in the mining and exploration sector are administered through an inspectorate of experienced professional staff who monitor compliance with mining safety laws and requirements.