Oil field explosions can lead to major injuries for workers around the incident as well as innocent bystanders in the vicinity. These incidents can also lead to major property damage and environmental hazards. Here, we want to review five of the leading causes of oil field explosions in Texas, but with the understanding that these are not the only causes of oil field incidents.

1. Inexperienced Workers

One significant factor contributing to oil field explosions is the presence of inexperienced workers. The oil industry often requires handling complex machinery and hazardous materials that demand specific expertise. When workers lack sufficient training or experience, they may not adequately manage risks or respond effectively to emergencies, leading to accidents and explosions.

2. Employee Fatigue

The demanding schedules and long shifts commonly associated with oil field work can lead to employee fatigue. Exhaustion affects workers’ alertness and decision-making abilities, increasing the likelihood of errors that could trigger an explosion. Maintaining rigorous safety protocols and allowing adequate rest periods are critical in preventing such accidents.

3. Defective Equipment

Defective equipment is another leading cause of oil field explosions. Machinery used in drilling and extraction must be maintained in excellent working condition to prevent malfunctions. Equipment failures can lead to uncontrolled releases of oil, gas, and other flammable materials, which are highly susceptible to ignition (see below).

4. Vehicle Accidents

Oil fields are often spread over vast areas, requiring the frequent use of vehicles to transport workers and materials. Vehicle accidents involving the transport of oil, gas, or chemical substances can lead to devastating explosions, especially if these substances are released and come into contact with an ignition source.

5. Accidental Ignition

Accidental ignition of flammable gases and liquids is a common cause of oil field explosions. This can occur through static electricity, open flames, smoking, or even hot surfaces. Proper safety measures, including comprehensive monitoring of flammable vapors and strict control of potential ignition sources, are essential to prevent accidental ignition.

Proving Liability if an Explosion Occurs

One of the most challenging aspects of an injury or property damage claim after an oil field explosion involves determining liability. There are often many different parties involved in the operation of an oil field. This can include employees of the particular oil field or third-party contractors allowed on and around the site. Regulatory agencies at the federal or state level could also hold liability, depending on the facts related to the particular explosion.

These cases involve gathering as much evidence as possible, not only from the scene of the incident itself but also in the form of records related to employers, contractors, employees, regulatory agencies, and more.

Why Does This Matter?

Oil field explosions happen, and they usually happen because of the negligent actions of another individual, company, or regulatory agency. If you or a loved one have been affected by an oil field explosion, either as an employee or as another party, you may need to speak to an attorney about what happens next.

Injury and property damage victims may have various routes to recover compensation for their losses. A explosion accident lawyer in Houston can offer the resources and experience needed to examine the facts of your case and, potentially, pursue compensation from an at fault party.