Oil platform workers face some of the most dangerous conditions in the maritime industry. According to OSHA, oil and gas workers are more likely to experience severe injuries compared to the average worker, often requiring extended recovery periods. Vehicle accidents may be the most common, but many other risks are present, both on the platforms and during transit.

If you’ve been injured in an oil platform accident, BOATLAW, LLP is here to help. With decades of combined experience in maritime and admiralty law, we have served countless offshore workers and their families. We can fight for the compensation you need and the justice you deserve.

Call 1-800-262-8529 today for a free consultation. Our attorneys serve clients across Seattle, Bellingham, Portland, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, and throughout Washington, Oregon, California, and Alaska.


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Information Center


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Oil Platform Accidents in Washington, Alaska, Oregon, and California

Oil platform accidents can result in serious injuries. Common types of accidents include:

  • Vehicle Crashes: Many accidents occur during the transportation of materials or workers to and from platforms.
  • Object Injuries: Workers may be struck by or caught in equipment or debris on platforms. OSHA mandates protective equipment such as eye, face, head, and foot protection to prevent these injuries.
  • Explosions and Fires: Exposure to flammable gasses and oils can result in catastrophic explosions and fires.
  • Falls: Oil platform workers are often exposed to great heights, with the potential for serious injuries from falls. OSHA requires protections to mitigate these risks.
  • Confined Space Injuries: Working in confined spaces like storage tanks can lead to suffocation, chemical exposure, or even explosions.
  • Ergonomic Hazards: Repetitive physical activities can result in strains, sprains, or musculoskeletal injuries.
  • High-Pressure Lines and Equipment: High-pressure gas lines or faulty equipment can lead to severe accidents.
  • Electrical Injuries: Faulty equipment design or maintenance can result in exposure to electrical or mechanical energy, leading to injuries.
  • Machine Accidents: Regular use of heavy machinery poses risks, especially if the machinery malfunctions.

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The Occupational Safety and Health Act Of 1970 General Industry Standards

The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 (OSHA) establishes general industry standards to protect workers from hazards on oil platforms. For example:

  • Part 1910.28(a)(1) mandates that workers must be protected from falls and falling objects.
  • Part 1926.105(a) requires safety nets in workplaces more than 25 feet above the ground or water, where other protections such as ladders or safety belts are unfeasible.

Under the Act, employers are also generally required to maintain a safe working environment free from serious hazards.


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The Longshoremen and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act

The Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA) provides compensation, medical care, and vocational rehabilitation services for workers injured on the navigable waters of the U.S., including oil platforms. Under the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (OCSLA), LHWCA protections extend to workers on oil rigs.

The LHWCA is a no-fault law, meaning workers can receive compensation regardless of who caused the accident. This can cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.


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Additional Resources

US Bureau of Labor Statistics Fact Sheet – The US Bureau of Labor Statistics presents statistics about fatal industrial injuries in the private sector mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction industry. The US Bureau of Labor statistics considers oil and gas extraction a type of mining. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the oil and gas extraction injury accounted for nearly three-quarters of all fatal mining injuries from 2003 to 2015.

Occupational Safety and Health Administration: Oil and Gas Extraction– The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provides an overview of oil and gas extraction, including the number of oil and gas extraction worker fatalities from 2013 to 2017, the health and safety hazards to oil and gas extraction workers, OSHA provisions applicable to oil and gas extraction, and the five OSHA regions.

Occupational Safety and Health Administration: Oil and Gas Extraction Safety Hazards– The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) outlines the safety hazards associated with oil and gas extraction.

Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 General Duty Provision- The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 includes a general provision requiring employers to provide a safe work environment.

Longshore and Harbor Workers Compensation Act Frequently Asked Questions- The Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs provides an overview of the Longshore and Harbor Workers Compensation Act.


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Oil Platform Accident Attorneys |  Washington, Oregon, Alaska, and California

If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in an oil platform accident, contact Boatlaw, LLP. Our maritime injury attorneys have the knowledge and resources to handle all the legal and financial complexities associated with your case. We will discuss your options and work hard to secure optimal compensation for your injuries.

Call 1 (800) 262-8529 today to schedule a free consultation. Our skilled lawyers represent clients in Washington, Oregon, Alaska, and California, and are ready to fight for your rights.


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