(10/9) People may get involved in some tragic events that can cause injury or death while working on a drilling rig or oilfield. These events or circumstances are called oilfield accidents. Some of the common oilfield accidents include structural flaws or rig mishaps, fires and explosions, vehicle accidents, struck-by incidents, caught-between or caught-in accidents, falls from heights, electrocutions and electrical accidents, toxic chemicals, and fatal oil field accidents. These accidents can be caused by under-training and weak supervision, ignoring safety protocols, lack of maintenance or bad equipment, inadequate personal protective equipment (PPE), fatigue from long shifts and work hours, working conditions, insufficient safety measures, and negligent supervisors or co-workers. Sometimes, when oilfield accidents occur, the victim (or victims) may be entitled to
compensation. Below is detailed information about these injury cases.
Severe Burn Injuries
Burns are the results of tissue damage due to chemical or electrical contact, overexposure to the sun or other radiation, or heat. They can be first-degree, second-degree, and third-degree. Milder or severe burns can result in loss of mobility, disfigurement, loss of vision or hearing, and life-threatening issues. Some of the symptoms of burns include swelling, pain, redness, blisters, and so on. You or your loved ones may need to consult the best Midland oilfield accident lawyer if you need to be compensated for damages.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
Any acquired injury to the brain caused by a sudden or violent hit is referred to as a traumatic brain injury. The event may involve an object piercing the skull and moving into the brain tissue. Some of the medical problems that emanate from these injuries include mental or physical disability and problems with cognitive functioning.
Spinal Cord Injuries
A spinal cord injury occurs when any part of the spinal cord is damaged. It is usually the result of damage to nerves at the end of the spinal cord. The injury can lead to paralysis or pain in the back and neck. There are complete and incomplete spinal cord injuries.
Respiratory Illnesses and Injuries Caused by Noise or Explosion
An oilfield is an environment filled with toxic substances. These substances are contained in oil extraction processes, which can affect a worker's respiratory system. Workers who are exposed to these toxic substances can develop coronary conditions, respiratory illnesses, and lung damage. In addition, there are chemicals in an oilfield that can affect your vision, and noise of machines or explosions that can affect your hearing.
Crush and Internal Injuries
Most times, workers in the oilfield are engaged around heavy objects. Crush injuries may occur if any part of their body is injured by these tools. A crush can result in open wounds, bleeding, infection, broken bones, and even amputation. In addition, being hit with heavy machinery can cause internal injuries or organ damage. There are times when workers may fall from a height. This can lead to serious conditions that may require immediate medical attention. Crush and internal injuries may lead to immobilization and death.
