Oil rigs are considered one of the most dangerous places to work, and employees are exposed to hazardous conditions every day. With accidents caused by everything from heavy machinery to toxic exposure and hazardous chemicals, working on an oil rig can lead you to suffer from a variety of severe and life-threatening injuries.
With that in mind, it’s essential that you understand the risks involved. Here’s a closer look at the common injuries that can occur and how legal rights can help oil rig workers stay educated and protect themselves.
Common Oil Rig Injuries
Injuries are not uncommon on oil rings, and many can be minor. Sometimes, though, accidents can result in catastrophic injuries that require a long recovery period. Some of the most common types of injuries that occur include:
High Falls
The high number of slippery surfaces and unstable platforms increases the risk of falls. These incidents can cause traumatic brain injury (TBI), bone fractures, and even back injuries or spinal cord damage.
Burns and Explosions
Oil rigs are inherently at risk of fires or explosions. Burn injuries can range from mild to severe, sometimes resulting in permanent disfigurement.
Chemical Exposure
Exposure to toxic chemicals and fumes can lead to a number of respiratory conditions, skin burns, and long-term health issues.
Repetitive Stress Injuries
Continuous heavy lifting and repetition of tasks can often cause musculoskeletal problems over time.
Amputations
Workers who handle heavy equipment can sometimes suffer from crushing injuries. They may even lose a limb due to machine malfunctions or accidents.
Head and Brain Injuries
Falling objects, collisions, and slips can result in workers experiencing serious concussions or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). These injuries can not only impact a worker’s ability to do their job but can have longer-term physical and financial consequences as well.
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Causes of Oil Rig Injuries
A variety of factors contribute to the high rate of injuries that occur on oil rigs, including:
- Equipment malfunctions: Faulty or poorly maintained machinery
- Lack of proper safety training: When workers don’t receive adequate training, they are less likely to handle hazardous situations effectively
- Falls from platforms or ladders: When working at elevated heights, unsafe working conditions can pose significant risks
- Explosions and fires: Working around combustible materials when equipment is improperly handled can cause devastating accidents
- Chemical spills and leaks: Oil rigs often have many dangerous substances, and long-term exposure can cause severe health issues
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, oil and gas continue to be one of the most dangerous industries, with hundreds of reported injuries annually. Additionally, Texas ranks as one of the states with the highest number of oil-rig-related injuries.
Preventing Oil Rig Injuries
There are a number of strategies that oil rig workers can use to protect themselves to minimize risk and prevent injuries.
A few ways they can be mindful about safety include:
- Receive extensive and detailed training
- Be provided with and use personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Ensure equipment has routine inspections and maintenance
- Enforce safety protocols to reduce the risk of workplace injury
- Act quickly and efficiently during an emergency, like a fire or explosion
While taking precautions like these can reduce the likelihood of injuries occurring on oil rigs, they can still happen. When they do, knowing your legal rights is important.
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Legal Rights for Injured Oil Rig Workers
There are several legal paths injured oil rig workers can choose from, including:
Workers’ Compensation Benefits
Most workers who are injured on an oil rig qualify for workers’ compensation, which will cover both medical expenses and a portion of lost wages. Workers don’t have to prove their employers are at fault to receive benefits. However, workers’ compensation doesn’t always cover all damages, especially those that are non-economic, like pain and suffering.
Lawsuits With Outside Individuals
Sometimes, an individual outside of a worker’s place of employment can contribute to an oil rig injury. In these cases, a third-party claim can be filed. A common example of this is when there is a machine malfunction that requires a defective equipment claim.
Maritime and Offshore Injury Claims
Workers who are injured on offshore oil rigs may be protected under maritime laws like the Jones Act. This legislation allows an injured sea worker to seek compensation if their employer’s negligence played a part in their accident.
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What to Do if You’re Injured in an Oil Rig Accident
Oil rig injuries can have life-changing consequences and leave workers with mounting medical bills and lost income.
Here are a few things to consider doing after an injury to protect a worker’s health and legal rights:
- Seek out immediate medical attention
- Report the injury to your employer as soon as possible
- Document everything, from medical visits to any employer communication
- Avoid speaking to insurance companies without legal advice
- If necessary, a legal professional can assess the case and assist
Taking these steps early can make a significant difference in your recovery and improve your chances of securing the full compensation you deserve.
Contact Our Houston Oil Rig Accident Lawyers for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been injured in a Houston, TX, oil rig accident, Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers can help. Our Houston personal injury attorneys have over 45 years of combined experience and have recovered tens of millions of dollars for accident victims. Call (713) 500-5000 or contact us today for a free consultation.
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