Yesterday, four oil platform workers jumped off an oil production platform off the coast of Louisiana into the Gulf of Mexico in an attempt to flee an early morning fire that threatened to cause serious bodily injury. Luckily, the workers were quickly recovered from the water by a responding vessel. No injuries have been reported thus far, but it remains to be seen if these workers suffered any internal injuries from smoke inhalation or from the trauma of jumping into the water.
This is unfortunately yet another example of the dangers presented by offshore oil platforms, particularly in the event of an emergency such as a fire where there are no safe places to flee. Notably, the platform involved has been cited by Federal Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement in the past for safety violations that resulted in the platform being shut-in to address the issues. The recent incident raises further questions as to both the compliance with federal safety regulations, as well as the general safety of oil platforms across the region.
It takes the skill of a competent attorney to review the circumstances of an incident such as this and determine what, if any, action can be taken by an injured oil platform worker. If you have been injured as a result of an accident involving offshore oil platforms, whether it be in Texas or Louisiana, the law firm of Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner can help as they have a dual-licensed attorney in both states. Call us today at (713) 222-7211 or 713-222-7211 for your free consultation.