Common Oilfield Accidents and Injuries

Working in the oilfield is fraught with potential hazards and dangers, making it one of the most challenging sectors in terms of occupational safety. The environment combines heavy machinery, volatile substances, and often remote or extreme locations, all of which contribute to a heightened risk of oilfield accidents. Employees are frequently exposed to harsh weather conditions, high-pressure systems, and the ever-present danger of equipment malfunction or operational errors.

Despite stringent safety regulations and protocols, the nature of the work means that oilfield workers must remain vigilant and well-trained to minimize the risk of injury. Understanding the common types of oilfield accidents and injuries is crucial for implementing effective safety measures and ensuring the well-being of those who work in these demanding conditions.

10 Common Oilfield Accidents

Oilfield work is known for its demanding and hazardous nature, with workers often operating in extreme conditions. Despite rigorous safety measures, oilfield accidents can still occur, leading to severe injuries or even fatalities. It is crucial for workers and employers alike to be aware of the most common types of oilfield accidents to mitigate risks effectively.

1. Contact with Object or Equipment: This type of accident is common in oilfields, where heavy machinery and equipment are used regularly. Workers can suffer injuries from being struck by or caught in moving equipment, leading to bruises, fractures, or more severe injuries. To prevent such incidents, it is essential to maintain a safe working distance, use protective barriers, and ensure all equipment is properly maintained and operated only by trained personnel.
2. Falls from Heights: Working on elevated platforms or rigs poses the risk of falls, particularly if appropriate safety harnesses are not used. These environments can be unstable, and workers might be exposed to high winds or slippery surfaces, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
3. Slip and Falls: Spilled oil, wet surfaces, and uneven terrain are common hazards that contribute to slips and falls, which are among the leading causes of injuries in the oilfields. These environments are often challenging to manage due to constant activity and adverse weather conditions, making it crucial for workers to remain vigilant.
4. Fires or Explosions: Due to the flammable nature of oil and gas, fires and explosions can occur, often with catastrophic results. Proper handling and storage of combustible materials are crucial.
5. Chemical Exposure: Workers can be exposed to hazardous chemicals in various environments, such as factories, laboratories, or construction sites. This exposure can lead to respiratory problems like asthma or chronic bronchitis, skin conditions such as dermatitis, or even more severe health issues like chemical burns or long-term diseases.
6. Transportation Accidents: Oilfield sites are often situated in remote locations, which necessitates considerable travel by truck or other vehicles. This extensive travel increases the likelihood of transportation-related accidents due to the long distances and potentially challenging road conditions. Additionally, the transportation of heavy equipment and hazardous materials can further complicate these journeys.
7. Entrapment: Workers may find themselves caught in or between heavy machinery, leading to severe crushing injuries. These incidents can occur when machinery parts are not properly shielded, or during maintenance tasks where safety protocols are not strictly followed.
8. Electrocution: With high-powered equipment on site, there is a significant risk of electrocution, particularly if the equipment is not properly grounded. This danger is further amplified in environments where water is present, as moisture can increase the conductivity of the electrical current.
9. Confined Space Incidents: The limited ventilation in confined spaces can pose serious risks, leading to suffocation due to inadequate oxygen levels or exposure to toxic gases that may accumulate. These hazardous conditions can result from the lack of proper airflow, making it crucial to ensure adequate ventilation.
10. Hydrogen Sulfide Poisoning: Hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) is a poisonous gas commonly found in oilfields, resulting from the breakdown of organic materials. It is colorless, flammable, and has a distinct rotten egg smell at low concentrations. Exposure to H₂S can be extremely dangerous, leading to a range of health issues from eye irritation and respiratory problems to loss of consciousness and even death at higher concentrations.

In understanding these common oilfield accidents, oilfield personnel can better strategize their safety protocols, ensuring a safer work environment. Educating workers about these risks and investing in comprehensive training and equipment maintenance are vital steps towards reducing the frequency and severity of accidents in the oilfield industry.

10 Common Oilfield Injuries

Oilfield work, while essential for meeting global energy demands, presents a range of physical risks to its workers. Understanding the common types of injuries associated with this field can help to implement more effective safety measures.

According to the CDC, reports on severe injuries in the oil and gas extraction (OGE) sector vary widely year-over-year. The peak was in 2018 with 395 incidents, while 2020 recorded the lowest tally at 144, not considering 2022 as it only includes data up to July.

The OGE sector saw the highest rates of amputations and hospitalizations in the well-servicing company workers, totaling 417 amputations (19.8% of cases) and 1,194 hospitalizations (56.8%). Specifically, well-servicing activities accounted for 163 reports (7.7%), with drilling contractors following at 375 reports (17.8%). Eye injuries were notably rare, with only 22 incidents (1%), predominantly involving support activities personnel, who reported 19 cases (86.4%).

Region-wise, Texas led with the most severe injuries at 1,134 cases (54%), with North Dakota and Oklahoma trailing at 221 (10.5%) and 171 (8.1%) cases, respectively.

The following list outlines ten prevalent injuries in the oilfield industry:

1. Amputations: The risk of amputations in oilfield work is significant, often stemming from machinery-related accidents or entanglements. These occur when workers are caught in or between equipment, leading to severe injuries that sometimes necessitate surgical amputation. High-risk activities include those involving rotating parts, where loose clothing or improper handling can lead to devastating consequences.
2. Fractures: Sustaining fractures is common when workers experience falls or are struck by heavy equipment. These injuries can be severe, requiring extensive medical treatment and recovery time. Proper use of safety gear and adherence to operational protocols can help reduce the likelihood of such incidents.
3. Burns: Burns can result from fires, explosions, or contact with hot surfaces and substances. They can vary in severity, from minor skin irritations to life-threatening conditions requiring immediate medical attention. Regular safety training and the use of protective clothing are crucial in preventing burns.
4. Respiratory Issues: Inhalation of toxic gases or fine particulate matter can lead to respiratory problems such as chronic bronchitis or even lung disease. It is vital for workers to employ protective masks and ensure adequate ventilation in areas at risk for poor air quality.
5. Hearing Loss: Constant exposure to high noise levels from machinery and equipment can result in gradual hearing impairment. To combat this, workers should consistently wear ear protection and adhere to safety guidelines regarding noise exposure limits.
6. Musculoskeletal Disorders: Repetitive motions and heavy lifting contribute to strains, sprains, and other musculoskeletal problems. Ensuring proper training in ergonomics and encouraging regular rest breaks can help prevent these types of injuries.
7. Eye Injuries: The presence of flying debris, chemical splashes, or intense light can cause eye damage. Wearing safety goggles or face shields is essential to protect against potentially harmful exposures.
8. Crush Injuries: Heavy machinery and equipment present a risk of crush injuries, which can cause severe trauma to limbs or the torso. Strict adherence to safety protocols and proper machine guarding are necessary to prevent these catastrophic injuries.
9. Heat Stress: Oilfield workers are often exposed to extreme temperatures, leading to heat exhaustion or heat stroke. It is important to maintain hydration and regulate work schedules to limit heat exposure.
10. Dehydration: The physically demanding nature of oilfield work, combined with harsh environmental conditions, increases the risk of dehydration. Workers should be encouraged to stay adequately hydrated and take regular water breaks to avoid this potentially dangerous condition.

By identifying and understanding these common injuries, employers and workers can foster a more informed approach to safety in the oilfield. Prioritizing preventive measures and ensuring consistent safety training are key steps toward protecting the well-being of oilfield personnel.

Sources of Severe Injuries

As reported by the CDC, machinery was identified as the primary source of injuries among OGE contractors and operators, accounting for 633 incidents (30.1%) reported to OSHA between January 2015 and July 2022. Within this category, construction, logging, and mining machinery were responsible for 483 injuries, which constituted 23.0% of all reported injuries.

• Parts and materials were the second leading cause, with 460 incidents (21.9%).
• Injuries related to structures and surfaces totaled 174 (8.3%).
• Building materials and solid elements were the predominant source, responsible for 187 injuries (8.9%).
• Vehicles were implicated in 157 severe injuries (7.5%).
• They emerged as the third most frequent injury source among well-servicing contractors, contributing to 131 injuries (6.2%).
• Highway motorized vehicles, such as passenger vehicles, trucks, and multipurpose vehicles, accounted for 101 severe injuries (4.8%).

Overall, 430 injuries (20.5%) were linked to oil drilling rigs and machinery. Other equipment involved in some cases included:

• Pipes, ducts, and tubing (101; 4.8%)
• Machine and appliance parts (67; 3.2%)
• Heat-environmental equipment (52; 2.5%)
• Hoses (37; 1.8%)

How Thompson Law Helps People Injured in Oilfield Accidents

Thompson Law is dedicated to assisting individuals who have been injured in oilfield accidents by offering comprehensive legal support throughout the entire process. Our experienced team of Texas oilfield accident lawyers specialize in understanding the complex nature of oilfield accidents and injuries and the legal ramifications that follow.

We work diligently to ensure that our clients receive the compensation they deserve, covering medical bills, lost wages, and other types of personal injury damages resulting from the accident. By conducting thorough investigations and gathering necessary evidence, we build robust cases that hold negligent parties accountable.

Furthermore, we provide personalized guidance and support, ensuring our clients are well-informed and comfortable with every decision. At Thompson Law, we are committed to advocating for the rights and well-being of those impacted by the hazards of oilfield work.