Refinery Explosions
Considering the mass amount of highly combustible substances housed in a refinery, explosions in these facilities are relatively rare. Once a year, maybe, you will see a news story covering a dangerous refinery fire or explosion.
However, these incidents, though infrequent, should not be taken lightly. The power behind these blasts is enormous – they have been known to affect communities located miles away. Anyone unfortunate enough to be caught in the heat of these explosions will surely suffer very serious injuries or even death.
Causes of Refinery Explosions
There are a number of areas where an error can lead, either directly or indirectly, to a refinery explosion. Because refineries are such volatile environments, just one negligent slip-up can have catastrophic results. Any of the following has the potential to result in an inadvertent, devastating blast:
- Leaks and spills, as well as the failure to clean them up
- Reckless handling of dangerous chemicals/substances
- Lack of employee training
- Failure to establish safety protocol
- Failure to follow safety protocol
- Defective machines, piping, and other products
- Negligence on behalf of contracting parties
- Failure to follow OSHA-set standards and regulations
- No warning of hazardous areas, systems, and substances
Clearly, there are many ways that a company or employee’s negligence can lead to a refinery explosion. Therefore, it is extremely important for all refinery employees to understand the importance of their jobs and ensure that they work carefully and attentively, not only to protect themselves, but also to protect others in the area.
Contact Us
If you have been injured in a refinery explosion, then you may have the right to claim damages from the responsible party. The refinery fire and explosion attorneys of Habush Habush & Rottier S.C. ® can help you recover compensation. To speak with a lawyer about your case, contact our offices today at 800-242-2874.