Texas leads the nation in oil production, employing thousands in the oil and gas industry. However, oilfield work is among the most hazardous professions due to dangerous equipment, toxic exposure, and the risk of fatal accidents. The CDC reports that in just seven years, oil and gas extraction resulted in 2,101 severe injuries. The dangers of oil rigs increase when employers cut corners on safety. If you or a loved one suffered an oilfield injury, our Houston oilfield injury attorneys at Fibich, Leebron, Copeland & Briggs can help. Call 713-751-0025 for a free consultation.
5 Reasons Oilfield Work Is So Dangerous
1. Explosions and Fires
Oil rigs contain flammable materials like crude oil and gas. A single spark from faulty equipment or welding can cause a devastating explosion. Employers must enforce fire safety protocols, maintain pipelines, and provide fire-resistant gear to minimize risks. When companies ignore these safety measures, oil rig workers suffer severe burns, injuries, or even death.
2. Heavy Machinery Accidents
Oil rig workers rely on drilling rigs, cranes, and transport vehicles, which can cause crushing injuries, amputations, or fatalities when poorly maintained. Employers sometimes skip routine inspections to cut costs, leading to catastrophic injuries. Houston oilfield workers deserve safe working conditions, but too often, companies prioritize profits over safety.
3. Falls from Heights
Oil rig workers often operate on elevated platforms, where faulty harnesses, unstable scaffolding, and slippery surfaces can lead to serious falls. Proper fall protection, routine safety inspections, and employer compliance with OSHA regulations are critical to preventing injuries. Unfortunately, many oilfield accidents happen because these precautions are ignored.
4. Exposure to Toxic Chemicals and Gases
Hazardous byproducts like hydrogen sulfide gas pose serious health risks to oil and gas workers. Without proper ventilation and protective equipment, workers may suffer from chemical burns, lung damage, or chronic respiratory illnesses. Long-term exposure can even reduce the life expectancy of oil rig workers. If you’ve developed health issues due to oilfield exposure, our Houston oilfield injury lawyers can help you seek compensation.
5. Fatigue and Human Error
Long shifts and extreme weather conditions can cause fatigue, leading to deadly mistakes. While employers often push for extended hours, exhausted workers face increased risks of accidents, from falling asleep on the job to miscalculating heavy machinery operation. The dangerous working conditions in the Deming oil field and other Texas oil sites put workers at unnecessary risk when safety regulations are not followed.
Injured in an Oilfield Accident? Contact Our Houston Oilfield Injury Lawyers
Oil companies have a legal duty to protect their workers, yet many prioritize profits over safety. If you’ve suffered an oilfield injury due to employer negligence, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation or damages from a personal injury lawsuit.
At Fibich, Leebron, Copeland & Briggs, we have decades of experience fighting for injured oilfield workers. Founding partner Tommy Fibich, a board-certified civil trial lawyer with over 50 years of experience, has helped secure multimillion-dollar settlements and verdicts. Our team includes three board-certified attorneys recognized by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, making us one of the most trusted oilfield injury law firms in Houston.
You work hard to provide for your family. If employer negligence has put your health and future at risk, we are here to help. Call 713-751-0025 today for a free case evaluation.
