A report has just been issued concerning last year’s refinery explosion at an ExxonMobil plant in Redondo Beach, California. According to findings, the explosion occurred after crews were repairing a unit that hadn’t been maintained for over five years. During the repair, the unit leaked hydrocarbons into another part of the refinery. This caused a spark, and the eventual explosion.
Investigators noted that the refinery explosion could have been prevented if managers had taken steps to shut down part of the facility before attempting repairs. This lapse contributed to the incident. As a result of the explosion, four contractors suffered serious personal injuries. Cal/OSHA fined Exxon $566,000 based on health and safety violations related to the explosion.
Refinery accidents including explosions, fires and chemical spills have the potential to caue significant harm, including serious personal injuries such as burns, electrical shocks, and in the worst case, fatalities. The costs associated with the medical care of those injured can be substantial. In most situations, injured workers and their family members may be able to file a claim for workers compensation benefits. Other times, it may also be possible to bring a civil action for damages.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a refinery accident, it is important to consult with an attorney who understands the petrochemical industry and how refineries operate, as well as the laws and regulations that apply to the oil and gas industries.
At Viadro Law, LLP we have years of experience helping victims of industrial accidents. For more information or if you have been injured in a refinery accident, please contact the experienced California refinery accident lawyers at Viadro Law, LLP for an immediate consultation.
