Workplace injuries happen anywhere, regardless of the nature of the profession or the type of job that is performed. However, you probably don’t have to work on a drilling rig to know that these monstrous structures are historically prone to disasters that don’t just impact one person, but every person on board. Below, we discuss some of the most common drilling rig disasters.
Blowout/Explosions
Explosions and fire-related blowouts are some of the most deadly disasters that can occur on a drilling rig due to all of the flammable materials that are on board. Essentially, blowouts occur when there is an uncontrolled release of oil and natural gas from a well due to a leak or a failure of pressure control systems. Remember, it only requires a single spark to ignite a catastrophic fire.
One of the most infamous drilling rig explosions occurred in April 2010, when the Deepwater Horizon explosion killed 11 drilling rig workers and led to four million barrels of oil spilled into the Gulf of Mexico over an 87-day period.
Extreme Weather Conditions
Extreme weather conditions are typical in areas where drilling rigs are located, which are typically in the offshores of Louisiana, Texas, California, and Alaska. Typhoons, hurricanes, storms, lightning, and high waves can cause damage to equipment on board. Ultimately, this can lead to a variety of other disasters, such as explosions, flooding, capsizing, and sinking.
Equipment Failure
While natural disasters and weather conditions remain an inherent risk to drilling rig workers, equipment failures account for a major number of all drilling rig disasters. It’s the job of the oil company to inspect all parts of the rig and ensure that all machinery is maintained and in proper working order. Sadly, these inspections take time and money, so many companies simply skip many of these essential steps—prioritizing their profits over the safety of their workers.
Advocating for Injured Oilfield Workers
If you’ve been injured in a drilling rig accident, please know that you are not alone. We have been standing up to insurance company bullies for decades and have built a reputation on delivering results while providing the best possible service to our clients and their families. You have our word we will fight hard to obtain justice and maximum compensation on your behalf.
Let us help you get back on your feet. Contact our Shreveport oilfield accident attorneys at (318) 221-1508 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. You pay no out-of-pocket fees and if we don’t win your case, you owe us absolutely nothing.
