Which Accidents Are Most Common Among Offshore Workers?
There is no shortage of potential hazards that offshore workers may experience on a daily basis. According to the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement, about 685 incident reports were filed in 2020; among these, approximately 24% involved injury or fatality.
Before becoming an offshore worker, it's crucial to understand the risks that may be associated with the job. Here are some of the injuries that are most common in this profession.
Slip and Fall
Whether due to a slippery deck or falling from a ladder, slip and falls are often some of the most common workplace accidents among offshore workers. International studies show that they may even account for upwards of 46% of injuries.
While broken bones or fractures are often regarded as the most critical reason for protecting workers from slip and falls, the threat of sustaining a traumatic brain injury (TBI) is even greater. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that nearly half of TBI-related hospitalizations result from falls.
Struck By An Object
Especially when working on a multi-level vessel, the threat of being hit by a falling object or equipment when loading and unloading is ever-present. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, being struck by an object or equipment is one of the leading causes of death among private-sector workers in trade, transportation, and utilities professions.
Repetitive Stress Injuries
From loading and unloading to lifting heavy objects, repetitive motions are highly common among many offshore jobs. Unfortunately, these can also lead to an extensive amount of pain, injuries, and chronic conditions, including:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Neck and back pain
- Tendonitis
- Bursitis
Commonly referred to as repetitive strain injuries, these are most likely to occur in the joints, making everyday work tasks significantly more challenging.
San Antonio Oilfield Accident Attorneys
Offshore workers should be mindful of how their work duties may contribute to serious injuries and take necessary precautions to ensure the safety of their crew members and themselves. Should you sustain an injury in a work-related accident, know that you may be eligible to seek compensation from your employer.
Schedule a free consultation with the team at The Law Office of George P. Escobedo & Associates, PLLC to discuss your potential claim. Call (210) 807-3178 to get started today.