The Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) has released an Investigative Report on a September 26, 2021 injury that was sustained on the West Delta 30 T (WD30) Platform in the Gulf of Mexico. The offshore platform is owned and operated by Cox Operating. During the incident, a contractor employed by W-Industries was performing work on the platform when the door on a well panel flung open and lacerated his finger.
The BSEE report, explained the incident:
On 26 September 2021 at approximately 0930 hours, the IP was removing damaged tubing from a well panel when the panel door swung open and pinched the IP’s right index finger between the side of the panel and door hinge, causing a laceration. The IP was treated with first aid on site before being flown to an Hospital where treatment beyond first aid was given. The IP was released back to duty following treatment received at the hospital on 26 September 2021.
The BSEE investigation determined the probable cause of the incident:
Human Performance Error – Inattention to task: Personnel failed to secure panel door.
The incident also shows the importance of having proper personal protective equipment. According to BSEE, at the time of the incident the injured worker was wearing impact gloves. While these allowed dexterity, they were insufficient for cut, tear and puncture resistance. Ultimately, the workers on a platform should be required to have adequate PPE, and safe platform operators must have procedures in place to assess the PPE which is worn. Accidents due to improper PPE are known risks, which much be planned for by platform owners and operators.
Our attorneys have extensive experience in maritime injury and wrongful death litigation in courts across the country and the skills needed to represent the families of loved ones who have lost their lives as a result of the negligence of another party, or been seriously injured. We have handled numerous cases involving injuries that occurred following fires or explosions on offshore platforms. The experienced offshore accident attorneys at Spagnoletti Law Firm can help you understand your rights if you or a loved one was a victim of an offshore accident. Please contact us online or call 713-804-9306 or to learn more about your legal rights.