According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Texas accounted for approximately 40 percent of the 663 workers that were killed throughout the United States in oil field-related industries between 2007 and 2012. An investigation by the Houston Chronicle revealed the failure of the federal government to implement proper safety standards and procedures.
Additionally, the investigation also shows a need of government inspections and lackluster practices by multiple oil and gas companies. As a result of these circumstances, many workers have been severely injured or killed.
According to the investigation by the newspaper, 79 people lost their limbs, 82 were crushed, 92 suffered severe burns and 675 broke bones in work-related accidents in 2012 alone. In the same year, the 65 deaths which occurred were a 10-year high and almost 60 percent more fatalities than the previous year.
For 22 years, federal authorities have failed to implement safety standards and procedures for onshore oil and gas drilling. OSHA has only 95 inspectors to oversee safety rules for all of Texas work sites and few have oil and gas-related experience or training. Furthermore, inspectors do not have the power to shut down a drilling rig or well site if life-threatening working conditions are present.
If you or a loved one have been injured in an oil field accident, our San Antonio oil field accident attorney has represented countless individuals who have been injured in negligence-related accidents, including oil field accidents
Call (210) 807-3178 to request your FREE consultation.