Oil refineries and drilling platforms are some of the most dangerous places to work. They are the location of fires, explosions, and toxic releases that destroy the environment and cause serious injury or even death.
Workers on the front line are at the highest risk. Not only are they exposed to extreme occupational pollution, but they also experience injury first when there’s an accident in these plants.
Common refinery accidents include:
- Capsized oil drilling rigs
- Offshore oil platform accidents
- Heat exchanger ruptures
- Petrochemical refinery explosions
Many oil companies, contractors, and refiners have been held responsible for injuries and deaths because of their negligence and failure to maintain industry-standard levels of safety.
Damages also have been claimed by surrounding residents because of toxic releases.
For example, Unocal Refinery in Rodeo, Calif., released 125 tons of caustic catalyst, including heavy metals and organic compounds, for 16 days in 1994. It sickened 1,500 neighbors with diarrhea, vomiting, headaches, allergies, brain damage, memory loss, and cognitive disorder. Many were still sick years later.
If you’ve been injured while working in a refinery or while living near one, you could be awarded compensation and damages. Call Ted Machi & Associates for a free evaluation of your claim.
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