Texas is home to some of the largest oil refineries in the U.S. These refineries process nearly 6.3 million barrels of oil every day. This amount equals a third of America’s refining capacity.
There is always a high demand for workers in refineries, meaning thousands of them are on-site at any given time. This is great for the country’s employment rate, but it can be a disaster when a refinery gas leaks.
Whenever there is a gas leak in a refinery, toxic chemicals will undoubtedly be released into the air. This can put thousands of employees at risk at the same time.
Moreover, sudden gas generation can cause catastrophic accidents because it can result in fires and explosions.
If you work in a refinery and are affected by a gas leak, you can take legal steps if you suffer injuries or losses.
There are several reasons gas may start to leak inside a refinery. In some instances, it is because of missing or inadequate safety protocols. All refineries should have regular inspections to find potentially dangerous issues.
Refineries should also install gas detection systems and emergency shut-off valves to help prevent explosions. When a refinery does not have these safety measures, it is more likely for a gas leak to occur.
It is also true that some refineries in Texas still have equipment, tanks, and pipes that are at least a few decades old. Chances are they are corroded and worn, leading to weakness in one or more systems. This can cause gas to escape.
Texas also experiences extreme weather, which hurts refinery infrastructure. Whether it is strong wind, floods, or tornadoes, it can damage refinery equipment, resulting in a gas leak. Speaking of equipment, a manufacturing fault or defect can also lead to a leak.
Lastly, human error can be the reason behind a gas leak in a refinery. Even though workers get extensive training, there is no guarantee they won’t make mistakes. When a worker does not tighten connections properly or accidentally leaves a valve open, it can quickly create a hazardous situation.
If a refinery gas leak occurs, you will be exposed to chemicals like sulfur dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, benzene, and VOCs (volatile organic compounds). Over the short term, exposure can cause you to experience:
The long-term effects are far more terrifying. You could develop a chronic respiratory disease like asthma. Moreover, your brain may be affected, and you may have an increased risk of cancer. A severe gas leak can even harm your internal organs.
You must get immediate medical attention if you experience these symptoms after a gas leak.
Immediately following a gas leak, you must follow official instructions. These may include a shelter-in-place or evacuation order. Do not defy these orders. Otherwise, you may be even more exposed to the gas.
Get immediate medical treatment and report the incident. Getting a copy of your medical records and keeping track of your symptoms in a personal injury journey is important.
Consult with a refinery accident lawyer to understand your legal options.
When you consult with a lawyer, you will receive advice on whether you have a strong enough case to claim compensation. Your lawyer will also explain the legal process so you know what to expect.
If the lawyer believes they can win your case, they will take you on as a client. They will also investigate the gas leak and find evidence to support your claim.
When your lawyer has enough evidence, they will formulate a legal strategy. This strategy usually involves negotiating with the refinery’s insurance company. If there is no agreed-upon settlement, your lawyer will prepare your case for litigation in court.
If you are filing a claim only, your lawyer will manage the paperwork and ensure you claim the right amount of compensation. On the other hand, if your case ends up in court, your lawyer will manage the process and represent you throughout the trial.
Do not delay taking legal action if you suffer from health issues due to a refinery gas leak. Speak to an experienced lawyer to hold the correct parties accountable and get the financial compensation you need.
