Oil rigs have some of the most dangerous working conditions of any job out there. Workers are often faced with extreme weather and harsh working conditions. The nature of the job puts oil rig workers at risk for injuries like falls and broken bones.

If you or someone you know has been in an oil rig accident, it’s important to consult with an oil rig injury lawyer. They can help you understand your rights and file a claim for compensation.

This article will go over a few of the common causes of oil rig accidents.

Explosions

Explosions are not unheard of on oil rigs, given how flammable the substances they deal with are. Explosions are one of the most devastating accidents that can occur on an oil rig. They are triggered by equipment malfunction, human error, or lack of proper safety.

Oil rigs often deal with substances like oil, gas, or other volatile substances that can cause explosions. These accidents can result in catastrophic damage to the rig and even the death of workers at the site.

Lack of Proper Safety Equipment

A major problem at oil rigs is the lack of proper safety equipment. Without proper protection, workers are at a higher risk of injury as they often have to work in difficult conditions, like slippery surfaces, handling heavy machinery in harsh weather, etc.

Safety equipment in such situations can save lives or prevent serious injuries. When the equipment itself is faulty, it may break under pressure and fail to protect workers. Oil rig operators can be held liable in such situations.

Extreme Weather

Extreme weather is common on oil rigs because they’re often located far out at sea, leaving them open to the vagaries of the weather. Storms and high winds are common here, which puts workers at risk. The weather may change suddenly, requiring workers to secure the rig in risky conditions.

Being injured at an oil rig due to such conditions could make you eligible for workers’ compensation, so consulting an oil rig worker to determine your rights is crucial. Workers could face high medical bills and emotional stress as a result of these accidents.

Equipment Failure

Another common cause of oil rig accidents is equipment failure. The work done on an oil rig requires a ton of heavy, complex machinery that needs to be maintained well. If the right protocols are not followed during operation, or if maintenance is not done regularly, it could result in malfunction.

This could result in serious injuries to workers and even loss of life. If workers are not properly trained in handling equipment, it could also lead to a malfunction, structural damage, or even an explosion. A lawyer can help determine who is liable in such conditions and guide you on how to proceed if you’ve suffered injuries.

Conclusion

To conclude, oil rigs are dangerous places to work in, and workers often have to contend with hazardous working conditions. Common causes of accidents on oil rigs include explosions, equipment failure, lack of proper safety equipment, and extreme weather. This poses a serious risk to workers, increasing the risk of accidents or even death.

If you’ve been injured on an oil rig, consulting with an oil rig injury lawyer is essential to ensure you receive the proper compensation for your injuries. A knowledgeable lawyer can guide you through the legal process, help identify the cause of the accident, and hold responsible parties accountable for their actions. Safety should always be the top priority, and an experienced attorney can help you pursue justice if you’ve been harmed while working on an oil rig.