Pipeline Explosion Near Coyanosa Leaves 2 Injured
On the morning of Friday, November 23rd, a pipeline explosion at the Waha Gas Plant near Coyanosa, Texas took place.
About the Explosion
The explosion was said to have happened at approximately 10 a.m. on Friday.
Fort Stockton and Imperial Fire Departments were sent to respond to the fire that started as a result of 24-inch pipeline exploding. Unfortunately, two individuals were injured. One individual was transported to UMC in Lubbock and another taken to Ward County Hospital.
Firefighters fought the blaze for hours before finally containing it around 12:30 in the afternoon.
Oil Field Accident Statistics
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), there are over 450,000 individuals employees in the oil and gas extra and support industries. Unfortunately, these are some of the most hazardous industries to work in, with the oil and gas industry responsible for more deaths from fires and explosions than any other private industry. Additionally, between 2009 to 2014, it accounted for 10 percent of all workplace fatalities from fires and explosions despite only accounting for 1 percent of the U.S. workforce.
Other statistics that highlight the seriousness of oil field accidents include:
- The oil and gas industries have the highest rate of severe injuries among industries with more than 100,000 employees.
- Between 2015 to 2016 there were 349 severe injuries in support activities for oil and gas operations.
- Between 2015 to 2016 there were 95 injuries in the oil and gas pipeline and related structures construction industry.
- Between 2003 to 2010, more than 820 oil and gas extraction workers were killed on the job.
- The fatality rate for this industry is seven times greater than the rate for all U.S. industries.
- The most common causes of fatalities include:
- Vehicle accidents
- Struck-by/caught-in/caught-between machinery
- Explosions and fires
- Falls
- Confined spaces
- Chemical exposures
Sadly, the Labor Department has noted that the number of injuries is very likely to be higher than what is reported.
If you or a loved one has suffered from an oilfield accident, contact the experienced oilfield accident attorneys at Lapeze & Johns for a free consultation . Our lawyers are ready to help you get your life back on track.
Source: NewsWest9


