5 Unwritten Rules Of Midland-Odessa Mancamps

Since moving to Midland-Odessa, I have always been well aware of the hardworking men and women who put in literal backbreaking work in the oilfields.

I am a man who sits behind a computer in the AC, so I have the utmost respect for those who work in the field.

Given my lack of experience in the oilfields, it is reasonable to assume I have not previously encountered a mancamp either.

Until today, I was completely unaware that the mancamps have special unwritten rules to follow.

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What Is A Mancamp? 

In the Permian Basin, mancamps are widely recognized and common knowledge. For those unfamiliar, a mancamp serves as temporary housing for oilfield personnel.

Thousands of transient workers bunk in temporary lodges and modular camps while crews run around the clock.

Unwritten Rules of the Mancamp

Those dorm-style compounds come with unwritten codes: let's dive deep into a few of them.

Rule #1: Showering

Slides or flip-flops in the shower are treated like safety gear.  The floors can be hazardous, so wearing protection on your feet is a great idea.

Rule #2:  Smells Can Travel

If you stink or burn food, it can cause an uproar.  The entire mancamp shouldn't have to suffer to smell your burnt popcorn because of your mistake.

It's best to open a window until it disappears.  However, you should fully expect to be called out for it.

Rule #3: After Hours Respect

After 10:00 PM, be as quiet as possible. Many individuals have just finished a 16-hour shift, so noise can be disruptive or hazardous due to short tempers and a lack of sleep.

If you're noisy and wake someone up, it's likely going to make some people angry. Please keep the noise level to a minimum.

Rule #4: Laundry Room Etiquette

Within the laundry room,��certain rules must be upheld. A completed load should not impede the use of the machine; once finished, it should be promptly removed.

Furthermore, if one moves another person's belongings, they should be placed on the table, not left on the floor.

Rule #5: Mind Your Business

If you see two guys having a quiet argument? You see something weird? Keep your head down and walk away. Don't get involved in drama that isn't yours.

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It is important to note that my sources come from discussions with numerous oilfield workers who have resided within the mancamps in the Permian Basin. I reiterate that I have no personal experience with these facilities.

From what I've heard, if you follow these rules, you'll survive the man camp. Break them and you'll have a target on your back.