Two workers using a torch to cut an oil line contributed to a massive oilrig fire last week off the New Orleans coast in the Gulf of Mexico. Two workers are missing and four others have severe burns over most of their bodies. Industry experts say it is comparable to the 2010 Deepwater Horizon fire that killed 11 workers.
Fortunately, workers extinguished last week’s fire in a few hours. In addition to the four workers with serious burn injuries, rescue workers transported 11 others to local hospitals for treatment. The four seriously injured men had second-degree and third-degree burns over much of their bodies. As of this writing, the Coast Guard was yet to find the two missing workers.
The majority of U.S. workers do not work on oilrigs, but 3 percent of workplace fatalities are from fires and explosions, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. If your occupation comes with a fire hazard, your employer should make sure all workers know what to do in the event of a fire. Failure to do so could be negligence on the part of your employer. You do not want to suffer a burn injury, as they can be some of the most painful injuries to endure.
Our website has more information on burn injuries and how we can help you or a love one. Feel free to call us at 504-522-7885 for a free case review with an experienced personal injury attorney.
Harrell & Nowak, L.L.C. – New Orleans accident lawyers