Extracting oil involves two primary methods: onshore drilling and offshore drilling. Offshore drilling, in particular, involves the extraction of petroleum from the seabed. This can be located several miles beneath the ocean surface.
While this method has led to significant oil discoveries, it also poses unique risks to the workers involved in the process.
Dangers of fire
Offshore drilling involves working in an ever-changing environment where there are regular explosions and fires. Gas leaks, equipment malfunctions or negligence can lead to devastating accidents. For example, a gas leak in an offshore rig can quickly escalate into a fire, endangering the lives of all on board.
Worker safety is constantly at risk here. Employers must acknowledge these dangers and implement safety measures to address those issues. Failure to do so can result in liability for any injuries or deaths that occur as a result.
Harsh weather conditions
The open sea is not a forgiving workplace. Offshore drilling workers are constantly at the mercy of harsh weather conditions, from high winds and storms to rough seas. These conditions can lead to severe accidents and injuries, such as being swept overboard or suffering injuries from falling equipment.
Employers should monitor weather conditions closely and take necessary precautions to make sure workers are safe in these conditions.
The risk of falls and injuries
Offshore drilling involves working with heavy machinery and equipment. Every day, workers operate this heavy machinery on a platform that can often become slippery due to oil leaks or bad weather conditions. This increases the risk of slips, falls and related injuries.
Workers must receive proper training and safety gear to minimize these risks.
Maintaining a safe working environment
Oil and gas extraction workers suffer more injuries than workers in any other industry. This makes the Jones Act an extremely important law for these workers. It allows them to take legal action if they get hurt because their employer either did not take enough care or the boat or ship they were working on was not properly maintained or safe.
Even though the Jones Act is a federal law, it applies to workers in California and all along the western seaboard. So, if a worker suffers injuries on the job, they should consider seeking an attorney. An attorney can help them understand their rights under the Jones Act and guide them through seeking compensation for their injuries.