Texas summers are known for being brutally hot. For those working in the oil and gas industry, that heat can quickly turn dangerous. With long shifts, demanding physical labor, and limited access to shade or cooling, workers face serious health risks during the hottest months of the year. Heat-related injuries are not only common in this line of work, but they can also be life-threatening in severe cases.
Despite increased awareness and safety guidelines, many employers still fall short in protecting their crews from extreme temperatures. This could be due to a variety of factors, like a lack of water breaks or unrealistic production demands. Regardless of the cause, preventable heat illnesses continue to occur across oilfields and worksites in Texas. Our attorneys are here to help you pursue justice if you suffered heat injuries due to your employment in the oil and gas industry.
Types of Heat-Related Illnesses on the Job
Heat-related illnesses can range from mild discomfort to life-threatening emergencies. The unfortunate reality is that oil and gas workers are particularly vulnerable due to long hours, physical exertion, and the use of heavy protective gear.
Heat exhaustion is one of the most common conditions. It occurs when the body loses too much water and salt through sweat, leading to symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, headache, nausea, and excessive sweating. If untreated, heat exhaustion can escalate into a far more dangerous condition. A more severe form of this condition is heat stroke, which occurs when a person’s ability to regulate their internal temperature fails. It can be fatal if left untreated.
Oil and gas workers are also at a constant risk of dehydration during the summer months. This is especially true when workers aren’t given regular access to clean water. Dehydration can impair judgment, reduce stamina, and increase the risk of other heat-related illnesses.
Employer Responsibilities Under OSHA and Texas Law
Employers in the oil and gas industry must protect workers from heat-related hazards. This starts with providing unlimited access to clean drinking water across all shifts. Staying hydrated is the best way for a worker to avoid heat-related injuries on the job.
Employers may also have to make other adjustments to ensure workers’ Safety. This could involve scheduling regular rest breaks, adjusting workloads or schedules to avoid extreme temperatures, or providing training to recognize the signs of heat stress in a co-worker.
Ultimately, it is the employer’s job to ensure that every safety protocol is followed. Failure to meet these responsibilities can result in liability for worker injuries.
Reach Out to Lopez Franco, PLLC Today
If you are living with the consequences of a heat injury while working in the oil and gas industry, our firm is here to help. At Lopez Franco, PLLC, we understand how your condition can impact your ability to earn a living or enjoy life. Contact us as soon as possible to discuss your legal options during a free consultation.