The blowout on the Deepwater Horizon drilling platform in 2010 triggered a series of events that caused an explosion and killed 11 crew members and wounded 17 more. The explosion eventually crippled the platform and resulted in its eventual sinking. The oil spill this triggered created an 87-day crisis, during which oil flowed freely into the Gulf of Mexico. The consequences of that oil spill continue to affect the region.<\/p>\n
The working conditions on oil platforms are inherently stressful and dangerous. Ignoring vital safety precautions can be fatal and result in a crisis similar to what faced the Gulf Coast region in 2010. The Downs Law Group practices both personal injury and maritime law in Florida. We can answer your questions about an accident or the safety practices of an oil rig on which you work.<\/p>\n
The oil and gas industry is known for its tough and demanding work. Fatalities within this industry are estimated at seven times that of the rest of the population. The work is often labor intensive and done with little rest. Statistics reveal that:<\/p>\n
Other evidence suggests that work periods can last longer than 12 hours and often approach 24 hours on duty. Federally required training is often ignored or minimal. As a result, the likelihood of a serious or even fatal accident grows even higher. Too often, unsafe conditions are ignored and safety regulations are routinely violated. Workers have a right to compensation if they are injured as a result of negligence and unsafe conditions.<\/p>\n
There are numerous sources of potential accidents on offshore oil rigs. Common factors include:
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