Oil and gas workers in Texas face some of the most hazardous working conditions, with risks that can result in life-altering injuries or even fatalities. From the dangers of explosions and falls to the perils of heavy machinery and moving vehicles, these workers endure a constant threat to their safety. While the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has established strict safety guidelines to protect these workers, accidents still happen.

At Byrd Davis Alden & Henrichson LLP, we’ve dedicated decades to helping injured workers and their families navigate the complexities of workplace injury claims. Recognized by Best Lawyers and Best Law Firms, we are committed to protecting the rights of workers in this high-risk industry and pursuing the compensation they deserve.

Protecting oil and gas workers from death or serious injury

Texas oil and gas workers face workplace dangers that may result in death or serious injury. Oil and gas worksites are often fraught with serious safety risks and safety hazards that require stringent regulations and oversight. To mitigate the risk of physical harm in the field, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration imposes strict drilling and servicing safety regulations on employers in the oil and gas industry.

We have experience in helping clients manage the consequences of oil field accidents.

What are some common injuries in the oil and gas industry?

Over half of all deaths in the oil and gas industry result from “struck-by/caught-in/caught-between” incidents that subject workers to risks from moving vehicles, falling equipment, and high-pressure lines. Workers may also be at risk of death or serious injury from several other hazards:

  • Explosions and fires caused by the ignition of flammable vapors or gases
  • Falls from elevated equipment like drilling platforms and masts
  • Vehicle collisions involving travel to distant well sites
  • The release of uncontrolled hydraulic, mechanical, or electrical energy from faulty or improperly maintained equipment
  • The lack of adequate safeguards on machinery

These types of injuries can have devastating consequences, leaving workers with long-term physical and emotional challenges. It’s crucial for employers to implement strict safety protocols to prevent these accidents and ensure that workers have the necessary protective measures in place.

What kinds of safety guidelines has OSHA established for the oil and gas industry?

OSHA has adopted several standards and practices designed to promote safe oil and gas field operations. All employers in the industry must identify and evaluate their site-specific hazards and then develop and adopt suitable safety procedures. These procedures may involve providing personal protective gear for workers, adopting drilling standards, and implementing training programs that cover topics like proper equipment use. Employers should also have emergency response procedures.

Employers in the oil and gas industry have the responsibility to adopt and follow protocols designed to protect workers from death or serious injury. Our website has additional information about this topic.

Common Types of Accidents

The oil and gas industry is prone to various types of accidents, including explosions, fires, equipment malfunctions, chemical exposure, falls, crushing injuries, and electrocution. These accidents pose serious safety risks to workers, making it essential for oil and gas companies to take proactive measures to prevent them. Some of the most common types of accidents in the oil and gas industry include:

  • Explosions and fires: These are among the most common types of accidents in the oil and gas industry. They can occur due to the ignition of flammable gases or liquids and can result in serious injuries and fatalities.
  • Equipment malfunctions: Equipment malfunctions can occur due to poor maintenance, improper use, or design flaws. They can result in serious injuries and fatalities and can also cause significant damage to equipment and property.
  • Chemical exposure: Oil and gas workers are often exposed to hazardous chemicals, including toxic gases and liquids. Prolonged exposure to these chemicals can result in serious health problems, including respiratory diseases and cancer.
  • Falls: Falls are a common type of accident in the oil and gas industry, particularly in areas with high elevations or uneven terrain. They can result in serious injuries, including head trauma, spinal cord injuries, and broken bones.
  • Crushing injuries: Crushing injuries can occur due to the collapse of equipment or structures or due to being struck by heavy objects. They can result in serious injuries, including broken bones, internal injuries, and fatalities.

Employers must remain vigilant in preventing these incidents through regular maintenance, hazard assessments, and comprehensive safety protocols. When these precautions fail, injured workers may need legal support to pursue compensation for their injuries and losses.

Regulatory Framework for Oil and Gas Worker Safety

The regulatory framework for oil and gas worker safety is established by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). OSHA sets standards for workplace safety and health, and enforces these standards through inspections and penalties. Some of the key regulations for oil and gas worker safety include:

  • Hazard communication: OSHA requires oil and gas companies to provide workers with information about the hazards of chemicals they are exposed to, and to train them on how to handle these chemicals safely.
  • Personal protective equipment: OSHA requires oil and gas companies to provide workers with personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect them from hazards such as chemicals, noise, and falling objects.
  • Fall protection: OSHA requires oil and gas companies to provide workers with fall protection equipment, such as harnesses and lanyards, to prevent falls from high elevations.
  • Confined space entry: OSHA requires oil and gas companies to follow specific procedures for entering confined spaces, such as tanks and pipelines, to prevent accidents and injuries.

These regulations are designed to minimize the serious safety risks faced by oil and gas workers and ensure their safety while on the job. However, despite these protections, accidents can still occur, and when they do, injured workers have the right to seek compensation for their injuries.

Safety Measures and Personal Protective Equipment

Oil and gas companies can take various safety measures to prevent accidents and injuries, including:

  • Providing workers with personal protective equipment (PPE) such as hard hats, safety glasses, and respirators. These safety measures are crucial in mitigating serious safety risks and preventing accidents and injuries.
  • Implementing safety protocols for tasks such as confined space entry and hot work.
  • Providing regular safety training to workers.
  • Regular inspections of equipment and facilities are conducted to identify potential hazards.
  • Implementing a safety management system to identify and mitigate hazards.

Some of the most common types of personal protective equipment used in the oil and gas industry include:

  • Hard hats: Hard hats are used to protect workers from falling objects and electrical hazards.
  • Safety glasses: Safety glasses are used to protect workers from chemical splashes and other eye hazards.
  • Respirators: Respirators are used to protect workers from inhaling hazardous chemicals and gases.
  • Fall protection equipment: Fall protection equipment, such as harnesses and lanyards, is used to prevent falls from high elevations.

By implementing these safety measures and ensuring that workers are equipped with the proper PPE, oil and gas companies can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.

Hazardous Work Environments

The oil and gas industry is characterized by hazardous work environments, including:

  • Confined spaces: Confined spaces, such as tanks and pipelines, can be hazardous due to the presence of flammable gases and liquids and the risk of explosion or fire.
  • High-pressure lines: High-pressure lines can be hazardous due to the risk of explosion or rupture and the potential for serious injury or death.
  • Hazardous materials: Oil and gas workers are often exposed to hazardous materials, including toxic gases and liquids, which can cause serious health problems.
  • Extreme weather conditions: Oil and gas workers often work in extreme weather conditions, including high temperatures, low temperatures, and high winds, which can increase the risk of accidents and injuries.

These environments pose serious safety risks that require stringent safety protocols and protective measures.

Employers must take steps to mitigate these dangers by adhering to safety regulations and providing the necessary training and protective equipment. When accidents occur in these environments, workers should have access to legal support to help them navigate the complex process of seeking compensation for their injuries.

Preventing Accidents and Injuries

Preventing accidents and injuries in the oil and gas industry requires a multi-faceted approach that involves both employers and employees. Here are some strategies that can help:

  • Regular Safety Training: Employers should provide regular safety training to employees on the hazards associated with their job tasks, as well as the procedures for preventing accidents and injuries. This training should be comprehensive and updated regularly to address new safety concerns.
  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Ensuring that employees have access to and consistently use PPE, such as hard hats, safety glasses, and gloves, is crucial. PPE protects workers from hazardous chemicals, falling objects, and other safety hazards prevalent in the oil and gas industry.
  • Hazardous Materials Handling: Establishing strict procedures for handling hazardous materials is essential. This includes proper storage, transportation, and disposal of hazardous chemicals to prevent exposure and accidents.
  • Confined Space Entry: Employers should establish and enforce procedures for entering confined spaces, such as tanks and pipelines. Proper ventilation, adequate lighting, and emergency response planning are critical to ensuring safety in these high-risk areas.
  • High-Pressure Lines: Regular maintenance and inspection of high-pressure lines are necessary to prevent accidents and injuries. Employers should ensure that these lines are in good condition and that any issues are addressed promptly.
  • Workplace Safety Inspections: Conducting regular workplace safety inspections helps identify and address potential safety hazards before they result in accidents. These inspections should be thorough and documented to ensure ongoing compliance with safety standards.
  • Employee Participation: Encouraging employees to participate in safety training and to report any safety concerns or hazards to their supervisors fosters a culture of safety. Employee involvement is key to identifying and mitigating risks in the workplace.

By implementing these strategies, employers and employees can work together to prevent accidents and injuries in the oil and gas industry, ensuring a safer work environment for all.

Seeking Help and Compensation for Injuries

If you or a loved one has been injured in an oil and gas industry accident, it is important to seek help and compensation as soon as possible. Here are some steps you can take:

  • Seek Medical Attention: If you have been injured, seek medical attention immediately. Even if your injuries seem minor, it is important to get checked out by a doctor to ensure that you do not have any underlying conditions that could worsen over time.
  • Report the Accident: Report the accident to your employer and to OSHA, if applicable. This will help to ensure that the accident is documented and that any necessary investigations are conducted. Proper documentation is crucial for any future claims.
  • Consult with an Attorney: Consult with an attorney who specializes in oil and gas industry accidents. An attorney can help you understand your rights and options, and can assist you in seeking compensation for your injuries. Legal expertise is invaluable in navigating the complexities of occupational safety regulations and compensation claims.
  • File a Workers’ Compensation Claim: If you are eligible, file a workers’ compensation claim to seek benefits for your injuries. Workers’ compensation can provide you with financial assistance for medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs, helping you focus on recovery.
  • Pursue a Personal Injury Claim: If you are not eligible for workers’ compensation, or if you believe that your employer was negligent in causing your injuries, you may be able to pursue a personal injury claim. A personal injury claim can provide you with compensation for your injuries, as well as for any pain and suffering you have experienced.

By seeking help and compensation for your injuries, you can ensure that you receive the support and resources you need to recover from your accident. The oil and gas industry can be hazardous, but knowing your rights and taking the appropriate steps can make a significant difference in your recovery process.

Advocating for Oil and Gas Workers’ Safety and Rights

At Byrd Davis Alden & Henrichson LLP, we know how devastating oil and gas industry accidents can be for workers and their families. With over 60 years of experience, we’ve helped injured workers navigate the complexities of workplace injury claims and ensured they receive fair compensation for their losses. Recognized by Best Lawyers and Best Law Firms, we are committed to holding employers accountable and advocating for safer work environments.

If you or someone you know has been injured in an oil and gas accident, we can provide the legal support needed to pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and more. Call us today at (512) 454-3751 or visit our contact form for assistance.