The Dangers of Oil Rig Explosions and Fires

Workers on oil rigs, including both drilling and workover rigs, face dangers of potential fires and explosions. Oil rig operators should be careful to adhere to safety regulations and protocols to keep workers safe when dealing with hazardous equipment and substances.

Unfortunately, oil rig accidents are common, despite safety regulations. Oil rig explosions and fires cause massive damages. If you’ve been in an oil rig accident, contact an oil rig attorney to learn how to seek compensation for your injuries. 

When Oil Rigs Cause Explosions

Oil rig explosions can be catastrophic. Workers in the vicinity may be severely injured or killed. The surrounding areas generally experience detrimental effects due to the fumes and smoke that follow the explosion. Since rigs sit on top of constant fuel supplies, putting out an oil fire once it starts is extremely difficult.

The severity of these explosions makes them dangerous and often fatal.

Common Causes of Oil Rig Fires

There are numerous reasons an oil rig might explode. Determining common causes of oil rig fires can 1) help prevent oil rig explosions and 2) determine liability if one occurs.

Equipment Malfunctions

When equipment malfunctions and causes a spark, it can start a fire. Oil rig workers constantly work around flammable substances and fuel, so something as small as a spark could be detrimental. 

An explosion could also result from the failure of safety equipment to prevent or dampen the impact of an oil rig fire or having an ignition source too close to the well head.

Negligence 

Employers, companies, and fellow workers can all be guilty of negligence. If employers ignore safety training, companies fail to provide ample equipment, or employees misuse tools, an oil rig could catch fire. The standards set for oil rig workers are vital in keeping everyone safe. Employers are responsible for knowing and enforcing these standards.

Uncontrolled Gasses

When releases of oil or natural gasses are uncontrolled, they can cause explosions. Employers must oversee the installation and maintenance of equipment to control the release of gasses and oil. 

Common Injuries From Oil Rig Explosions and Fires

You can seek compensation if you worked on an oil rig and suffered an injury. Common injuries a from oil rig explosions are:

• Burns
• Crush injuries
• Dismemberment
• Brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries 

Steps After an Oil Rig Explosion

In the wake of an oil rig explosion, after seeking medical treatment, you should immediately find legal representation. This is especially true if your accident and injury occurred offshore, which complicates legal matters.

There is limited time to file a personal injury or workers’ compensation claim. Find an experienced attorney to help you determine liability for the incident and fight for you to claim compensation.

Determining Liability for an Oil Rig Explosion

An oil rig attorney can help you determine who is at fault for your oil rig explosion injury. From there, you may pursue compensation for your financial losses.

Often, employers are found negligent in oil rig fire cases. If they don’t provide the proper training, follow the standard procedures, or otherwise ensure a safe workplace, they are at fault for any accident that arises from that environment. 

You and your attorney can address any Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) violations and federal protections that may exist.

Injured in an Oil Rig Explosion? Contact an Experienced Law Firm 

If an oil rig explosion has impacted you or a loved one, seek compensation. Work with an oil rig attorney from Fadduol Cluff Hardy & Conaway P.C. to guide you through this complex process. Fadduol Cluff Hardy & Conaway P.C attorneys have been representing personal injury cases for nearly four decades with clients throughout the country, and offices in New Mexico and Texas.

Contact Fadduol Cluff Hardy & Conaway P.C at (800) 433-2408 for a case review today.