Occidental Petroleum Corporation (OXY) is an international oil and gas exploration and production company with operations in the United States, Middle East, and Latin America. Headquartered in Houston, Occidental is one of the largest oil and gas companies in the country. The company operates a subsidiary, OxyChem, which is a major North American chemical manufacturer. Created in 1920, the company now employees approximately 33,000 workers.
Oxy USA Workers and Oil Rig Accidents
Accidents reports that have resulted in injuries involving Oxy USA workers include the following examples:
- In 1998, a worker slipped when he was climbing down a ladder from the crane which caused the worker’s right knee to strike the ladder causing injuries. The most likely cause of the accident was that the worker was wearing rubber boots while climbing down the latter. Reports also suggest that the work did not take sufficient time to climb down the ladder. One of the other common reasons why ladder accidents occur on oil rigs is that workers fail to either properly secure ladders or use the wrong ladder for the job.
- In 1999, a leg collapsed on a 3 leg lift boat injuring three workers and causing one worker to go missing. The missing worker was later presumed dead. The collapse of scaffolding structures is one of the most common reasons why falls occur on oil rigs. Other reasons for falls include workers who fail to properly follow safety precautions.
- In 2000, the artery of a worker’s left arm was cut by a flying piece of metal chipped from a bolt which was being removed from the winch of the crane. A large number of workers on oil rigs are injured each year due to falling objects, objects that collide with workers, and even in accidents in which workers become trapped between a hard surface and a piece of machinery.
The Danger of Asbestos for Oil Rig Workers
Asbestos is found in many older buildings even though there are regulations that prohibit asbestos from being placed in new structures and buildings. Beginnings in the 1930’s, many companies knowledge about the dangers of asbestos, however, which is why oil rig workers who are diagnosed with asbestosis, mesothelioma, or another associated medical condition are often able to obtain compensation for their injuries.
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Speak with a Texas Oil Rig Accident Lawyer
When oil rig injuries occur, workers are frequently left uncertain about how to proceed and what steps should be taken to obtain the compensation that they deserve. Our legal counsel has significant experience helping injured oil and gas workers navigate the various obstacles that arise. Contact our law office today for assistance.
