There are some jobs out there that are more dangerous than others, no matter which way you look at it. Some of the riskiest jobs in Texas – and America, for that matter – are those that work in the oil and gas, chemical, or electrical industries. This is because individuals in these industries are often exposed to hot liquids, chemicals, gases, and other flammable liquids. While explosions in the workplace may be a dramatic example of the industrial dangers faced by workers, they happen more often than many people realize.
The National Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries states that more than 100 workers are killed every year in the U.S. by a fire or explosion on-the-job. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reports an average of 5,000 or more injuries every year from gas or chemical explosions. Given the inherently dangerous nature of these types of jobs and industries, it is imperative you understand how to prevent these types of accidents. In the event you were injured or lost a loved one in an explosion, retaining the services of an experienced oil and gas explosion attorney is one of the first steps you should take.
Common Causes for Gas and Chemical Explosions
Before we look at what some of the most common causes of gas and chemical explosions, let’s go over the different types of explosions:
- Supersonic – These explosions travel via supersonic shock waves and are usually the result of high explosions, known as detonations.
- Subsonic – These explosions stem from low explosions through a process known as deflagration.
Regardless of the type of explosion, these types of accidents can result in devastating injuries or worse. In many cases, explosions occur when you least expect it. We see explosions happen at home, following a trucking accident, or at the workplace. Some of the most common causes of gas and chemical explosions include:
- Sparks or open flames igniting chemicals
- Improper use of a gas furnace, stove, or other appliance
- Old, rusty gas lines leading from the street into the home
- Defective equipment, such as gas grills or other items powered by gas
- Violations of codes and standards that regulate the safe handling or gas and other chemicals
- Defective manufacturing procedures
Common Injuries from Gas and Chemical Explosions
There are many different injuries that may occur as a result of a gas or chemical explosion, including:
- Burn injuries (ranging from first degree to third degree)
- Concussions, inner ear damage, or punctured retinas from the blast wave
- Puncture wounds from flying debris
- Poisoning or lung damage from toxic gasses
- Impact injuries
Jobs with Highest Risk of Explosion Injuries
The following jobs and injuries have the highest probability of gas or chemical explosion, resulting in devastating injuries:
- Oil and gas refineries
- Fracking sites
- Chemical plants
- Lumbar plants
- Construction sites
- Transport depots
- Manufacturing plants
- Mining operations
- Power plants
If you have been injured in a gas or chemical explosion in Texas, please contact Shamieh Law today. We understand how serious these types of accidents can be and will do everything we can to protect your rights and ensure justice is served.