Throughout the nation, including the state of Pennsylvania, individuals are employed in the field of oil and gas. As is the case with any job there is the possibility that a worker in that field could suffer an on-the-job injury. In some cases such an injury could even be fatal.

Recently Indiana University of Pennsylvania played host to an event during a national stand down organized by several entities including the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Stand downs are an opportunity for workers to take a break from the activities they regularly do to discuss matters of safety.

This is something that is worth the effort. Nationally, the number of nonfatal work injuries in the field of oil and gas has increased dramatically. In 2011, the number of workers who suffered this type of injury was 1,400. In 2012, it jumped to 2,600. In addition, many workers die as a result of the workplace injuries they suffer. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, in 2012, that occurred approximately once every three days.

Not unique to the field of oil and gas production, a fair portion of those fatal workplace accidents, about 40 percent, are the result of motor vehicle accidents. In about half of those deaths, the failure to wear a seat belt was noted. Other reasons cited for worker deaths include explosions, fire and falls from height.

When a gas and oil worker is injured and survives a workplace accident, the recovery period can be difficult. During that time financial concerns can grow. To help address the expenses that accrue, many seek workers’ compensation benefits from their employer.

Source: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, “Oil and gas fatalities spike with boom,” Anya Litvak, Nov. 30, 2013