Pumpers, however, work outdoors part of the time inspecting the tanks and pipeline. There they are exposed to the weather. Most processors work 40 hours a week, although overtime is often available. Refineries operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Thus night, evening, and weekend shifts are common.
Some refineries have their workers on a rotating schedule.
In this situation, processors work day shift for a few weeks then an evening shift for a few weeks. Rotation shifts can cause workers to experience difficulty sleeping. Workers are occasionally exposed to fumes, extreme heat, noise, and explosives. They also may experience danger from moving mechanical parts, toxic chemicals, and working in high, exposed places. Pay varies with the area of the country, employer, and employee experience.