Offshore Oil and Gas Rigs Are Getting Back to Work

Throughout the United States, the number of oil and gas rigs operating offshore has been on a steady increase. As of September 30, 2016, Baker Hughes reported 22 rigs operating offshore, with 21 of those rigs located in the Gulf of Mexico. While still down from 29 operating offshore rigs one year ago, the oil and gas industry is climbing out of one of the most severe production downturns in recent history.

As offshore rigs come back online, operators, and employers face the important task of making sure their crews are working safely. Many offshore rig crews have been out of work since rigs began working reduced hours and ceasing operations in late 2014. As crews return offshore, employers and operators should provide refresher training to experienced crewmembers. Responsible operators understand that a well-trained crew led by supervisors who value safety above profits typically results in more efficient operations with less down time and fewer injuries.

Additionally, many of the rigs coming back on line will require maintenance and testing of unused equipment exposed to the elements while offline. Experienced and well-funded operators will take the time necessary to ensure that the new increase in production is not offset by injury and property costs from poorly-maintained equipment.

If you have been seriously injured or your loved one killed while working offshore, it is important that you contact a personal injury law firm with experience handling maritime injuries. It is equally important to hire a firm with the resources necessary to obtain the best results on your behalf. The law firm of Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner is the oldest personal injury law firm in Texas. Many of our lawyers have extensive experience litigating offshore injury cases. Contact us today for your free consultation: (713) 222-7211.