During a 7-year period, the United States oil and gas extraction industry (onshore and offshore, combined) had a collective fatality rate seven times higher than for all U.S. workers.
How Many People Die on Oil Rigs Every Year
According to the U.S Department of Labor Bureau 1,566 workers died from 2008-2017 from oil rig accidents. In 2019 alone, there were 6 fatalities and 222 injuries caused by oil rig accidents.
The offshore oil industry plays an essential role in our nation’s economy and it employs countless Texans, but this statistic also reminds us of the hazards of this trade. From poor working conditions to defective equipment, every day, maritime workers face dangers. If you are currently working or looking for oil rig jobs in Texas, it is important to know the causes of offshore oil rig disasters.
The top causes of offshore oil rig accidents include:
Transportation Incidents
According to the CDC, transportation events were the leading cause of fatalities. Oil rig workers rely heavily on aircraft to get to rig locations, but mechanical malfunctions and adverse weather conditions can make travel dangerous.
Objects and Equipment Accidents
Another cause of oil rig accidents are objects and equipment incidents. Workers in this industry must deal with heavy machinery every day, leaving them susceptible to be struck by large objects. Inadequately trained employees also pose a threat to themselves and others when controlling equipment.
Gas Field Explosions and Fires
Due to all the flammable materials aboard, disastrous accidents are likely to occur. In 2010, 11 people lost their lives in the Deepwater Horizon explosion. A bubble of methane gas acted as a catalyst for the event, which resulted in a blowout. Gas and oil explosions can be especially tragic.
Exposure to Dangerous Substances
Chemical exposure and other dangerous substances are other common causes of oil rig accidents. Workers come into contact with potentially harmful substances and fumes every day, such as drilling fluid, solvents, and production chemicals. Exposure to toxic chemicals can lead to debilitating injuries, terminal illness, and wrongful death.
Slips and Falls
Site managers have a duty to keep decks dry to prevent injuries, but corporations often try to cut corners by forcing employees to work quickly and cheaply.
Enlist the Help of a San Antonio Oil Field Accident Attorney
If you or a loved one has been involved in an offshore oil rig accident, you can trust The Law Office of George P. Escobedo & Associates, PLLC to fight hard to recover the damages you deserve. While no amount of money can equal justice, compensation and holding the negligent parties accountable can help. Don't wait, call our San Antonio offshore injury law firm to learn how we can help you with oil rig accidents.
Our oilfield injury attorneys at The Law Office of George P. Escobedo & Associates, PLLC are prepared to fight for you tirelessly. Call us at (210) 807-3178 today to schedule a free consultation!