Fixed platforms are structures that are attached to the seabed. They provide a stable base for workers to extract oil and gas. While these platforms facilitate efficient operations, they also pose unique worker risks.
Injuries on longshore fixed platforms are not uncommon and can have severe consequences. If you or someone you know has been affected by such injuries, seeking guidance from maritime injury lawyers to understand your options and rights is a good idea.
Understanding the leading cause of injuries on longshore fixed platforms can help raise awareness and improve safety practices. Below are five ways individuals commonly sustain injuries while working on longshore fixed platforms.
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1. Slips, Trips, and Falls
Fixed platforms are often exposed to wet or slippery conditions due to water, oil, or cargo residue. Uneven surfaces, poorly maintained walkways, and misplaced tools can also contribute to trip hazards.
Workers may sustain fractures, sprains, or head injuries due to these falls. Regular inspections and non-slip coatings are crucial to minimize these risks.
2. Equipment-Related Incidents
Heavy machinery and tools are integral to oil and gas extraction. However, malfunctioning equipment or improper usage can cause serious injuries, such as crush injuries, limb amputations, or burns. Workers who lack experience in operating machinery may face increased risks.
Proper maintenance schedules and comprehensive training programs are essential for preventing equipment-related accidents.
3. Falling Objects
Cargo being loaded or unloaded on fixed platforms poses a risk of falling objects. Workers may be struck by containers, tools, or debris, leading to head injuries, broken bones, or even fatalities.
Wearing protective equipment, such as hard hats, and adhering to strict loading procedures can mitigate these risks.
4. Exposure to Hazardous Materials
Longshore workers often handle hazardous materials, including chemicals, fuel, or other toxic substances. Accidental exposure due to spills, leaks, or inadequate protective measures can result in respiratory issues, skin burns, or long-term health problems.
Implementing strict handling protocols and providing safety equipment can reduce exposure risks.
5. Structural Failures and Collapses
The stability of fixed platforms depends on regular maintenance and adherence to construction standards. Corrosion, weak joints, or unaddressed structural wear can lead to collapses or other structural failures.
These incidents can result in catastrophic injuries, including fractures, drowning, or crush injuries. Frequent inspections and prompt repairs are critical to ensuring the platform’s safety and longevity.
Final Thoughts
While longshore fixed platforms play a vital role in oil and gas extraction, they also pose significant risks to workers’ safety. Slips, trips, and falls, equipment-related incidents, falling objects, exposure to hazardous materials, and structural failures are common ways individuals sustain injuries while working on these platforms. Accidents in longshore fixed platforms tend to cause fatalities as well.
Employers must prioritize safety by implementing comprehensive training programs and adhering to maintenance schedules. Workers can also take proactive measures by wearing protective gear and promptly reporting hazards or concerns.
As accidents in fixed platforms are rarely minor, the consequences can be serious as well. Victims may have to go through weeks or months of recovery, during which they may miss income. In such situations, the assistance of a maritime injury lawyer is vital. These legal professionals have the expertise to help victims through the compensation process.
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