Working in the oil and gas industry comes with its fair share of risks, particularly in oilfields. Accidents can lead to severe injuries or even loss of life. In such cases, pursuing legal action is crucial to seek justice and accountability.
The Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) recognizes the importance of controlling oilfield hazards to prevent accidents. In Waskom, Marshall, and Harrison County, TX, oilfield workers who suffer job-related injuries may be eligible for workers’ compensation, which provides various benefits to support affected employees.
If you or someone you know has experienced life-changing injuries while working in the oil and gas industry, understanding your legal rights and options is essential. The Law Office of Josh B. Maness specializes in helping oilfield workers in Waskom, Marshall, and Harrison County seek the compensation they deserve.
How Dangerous is Oilfield Work?
Oil field workers face constant risks like heavy machinery, heights, and chemicals, including hydrogen sulfide. They also handle moving vehicles and other dangerous equipment, often working in challenging weather conditions like high winds, storms, freezing temperatures, and intense sunlight.
Drilling for oil can be very dangerous when safety measures are not prioritized. Some of the dangers workers face working in gas and oil fields include:
Transportation Risks
According to OSHA, nearly 4 out of 10 industry-related deaths involve motor vehicles. Whether driving trucks, operating heavy machinery, or flying in helicopters, oilfield workers are always at risk of serious accidents, especially when moving between multiple work sites. Their long shifts and unpredictable schedules make fatigue and drowsy driving major concerns. CDC data even shows that being awake for at least 18 hours is similar to having a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.05%.
Toxic Exposure
The oil and gas industry naturally entails daily encounters with potentially harmful chemicals. Exposure can come from the gasses and vapors emitted by oil and gas products, like hydrogen sulfide gas (H2S). Also, the materials used in drilling or extraction, including fluids and proppants in fracking, may pose risks. The compositions of many of these substances, often undisclosed to the workers, contain toxic elements known to cause respiratory problems, cancer, and other illnesses.
Fires and Explosions
Explosions resulting from igniting specific vapors or gasses are a significant worry for oil and gas workers. On drilling rigs, flammable vapors, and gasses can readily catch fire due to factors like friction heat, hot surfaces, sparks from cutting and welding tools, open flames, static electricity, pressure levels, and even cigarettes.
Fall Injuries
Falls are a common risk for oil workers, particularly in elevated rig areas. Workers may fall from platforms into the ocean or onto hard ground, and such accidents can be extremely dangerous. However, many of these incidents can be prevented by adhering to proper safety guidelines.
Crush and Contact Injuries
Accidents in oil fields often entail falling equipment, motor vehicles, and high-pressure lines. It is the responsibility of employers to safeguard workers from these injuries by supplying appropriate hand, eye, and foot protection.
What to Do If You’re In an Oilfield Accident
If you’re injured in an oilfield accident, getting medical help quickly is essential to prevent serious complications, including the risk of death. Notify your supervisor immediately and inform the company of the dangers within 40 days to secure potential workers’ compensation benefits. The early involvement of a Texas attorney is crucial. An oil field injury attorney, like those at the Law Office of Josh B. Maness, can assess all possible resources to maximize your recovery after an accident.
Don’t Face the Dangers Alone: The Law Office of Josh B. Maness Supports and Advocates for Injured Oilfield Workers
Every job comes with its own set of risks, and workers are aware of them when entering certain professions. Oilfield work is no exception. However, it carries more significant risks than many other jobs. When a worker is injured or falls ill in the oilfield, the root cause often points to the reckless or negligent actions of another.
The Law Office of Josh B. Maness thoroughly investigates oilfield injury and fatality cases to uncover the actual cause. If you or someone you know has been a victim of an oilfield accident, you may be entitled to compensation for injuries, lost wages, and related expenses. Schedule a free consultation with Attorney Maness to benefit from his experience and guidance.
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