Drilling Rig Injuries

If you work on a drilling rig, you are fully aware of the dangers of the job.  You have probably either been injured yourself, or witnessed many types of the injuries that occur on drilling rigs.  The injuries significantly vary in severity, with some injuries resulting in death.  Injuries sustained while working on drilling rigs can occur due to worn or defective equipment, improper safety precautions, and improper or insufficient training. There is big money in the drilling rig industry and, unfortunately, many times safety issues and safety regulations are overlooked or ignored because owners are more interested in profits than safety.  If you have been injured due to the fact any of these safety issues were ignored or completely disregarded, do not handle your case alone. Your case could be more than just a work related injury.  Contact a lawyer at Stevenson & Murray immediately to discuss your rights.

There are federal laws governing offshore operations such as drilling rigs. This law is known as the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Acts (OCSLA or OCS Lands Act). Under the OCS Lands Act, federal agencies regulate every phase of exploration, production and development with regard to any work performed on a drilling rig. The Act provides that it is the “duty of any holder of a lease or permit . . . to:

1. maintain all places of employment within the lease area . . . in compliance with occupational safety and health standards and . . . free from recognized hazards to employees;
2. maintain all operations … in compliance with regulations intended to protect persons ….”

The law in these cases can become complex and difficult to understand. It is important that you consult with an attorney with expertise in this area of the law to ensure your case litigation is appropriately handled. The Houston lawyers at Stevenson & Murray are extremely knowledgeable regarding the OCSLA and your rights under the Act.

If you have sustained an injury while working on a drilling rig, contact us to discuss your case to ensure you receive the treatment you deserve and are adequately compensated for any impairment caused by the injury.