Some careers are inherently more dangerous than others. For example, oilfield work is a particularly hazardous job. Those who work with oil and gas are often put in harm’s way simply due to the many factors with which they work. There are many combustible elements, heavy machinery, and other factors that can cause a worker to sustain serious injuries. If you wish to learn more about your legal rights, contact our Houston catastrophic injury lawyer. Workers need to make sure they have the necessary safety equipment to protect themselves in the event of an incident.
Some of the dangers oilfield workers may encounter include:
Fire / Explosions
This is the biggest danger because of the flammable nature of the oil and gas with which the workers operate. There is a countless amount of combustible chemicals at these workplaces, making it always possible for a fire to start and potentially cause an explosion. Because fires and explosions occur suddenly, workers often have very little time to reach safety. Refineries should be prepared with a fire-fighting plan in place to minimize damage and injury to workers.
Mechanical Equipment Defects
Oilfield operations involve the use of numerous machines. Many of them are used in unguarded areas which could cause potential dangers to the workers who use them. Sometimes, workers are not provided with the proper equipment to keep safe from these potential hazards. Furthermore, there is the possibility of the machinery being defective, which could cause injury to anyone who uses it, or even other workers who are nearby.
Fall Dangers
There are numerous positions in the oil and gas industry in which the worker is required to work on an elevated platform. In these situations, the workers should not only be provided with the proper equipment to protect themselves from injury, but the platform should also have railings and other safety precautions to help prevent a fall. A fall from a height can cause serious injuries to an individual, including traumatic brain injuries that could require long-term care and support.
Toxic Chemical Exposure
Not only are many of the chemicals at an oilfield work site combustible, but they are potentially dangerous if inhaled or touched by the worker. Many of the operations put hazardous chemicals in the air, making it possible for workers to be exposed to it for a prolonged period. This could lead to serious brain damage or respiration issues. Depending on the chemicals, the workers are also at risk of cancer or other serious conditions. Some other side effects may include skin irritation (chemical burns), harm to the eyes, nausea, and more.
Houston Oilfield Injury Lawyers
As an oilfield worker, you should know there are plenty of potential risks that come with the job title. However, when the danger is caused by someone else’s negligence, rather than just the nature of the job, any party who sustains an injury should understand their right to seek compensation. When this happens, you or the family of a decedent can seek help from our Houston oilfield injury attorneys at Fibich, Leebron, Copeland & Briggs.
Contact our firm today to request a complimentary consultation.