Explosions are among the most catastrophic events that can occur at an oil refinery. These powerful incidents often result in widespread devastation, including serious injury, loss of life, and extensive property damage. While refineries are designed with safety systems to prevent such disasters, explosions still happen — frequently due to equipment failures, human error, or third-party negligence.
When an explosion occurs, injured workers may have the right to pursue compensation beyond workers’ compensation benefits. A refinery injury lawyer can assist in investigating the incident and determining whether a third-party company played a role in the explosion.
Common Causes of Refinery Explosions
Refineries are complex environments where a single error or equipment failure can trigger an explosion. The most common causes include:
Flammable Vapor or Gas Leaks
Leaks of volatile materials such as hydrogen, propane, or hydrocarbons can ignite with a single spark, leading to powerful blasts.
Equipment Failure
Defective valves, pumps, pressure relief systems, or storage tanks can fail and cause explosions, especially if manufactured improperly or poorly maintained.
Chemical Reactions
Improper handling or mixing of reactive chemicals can trigger violent explosions if safety protocols are not followed.
Human Error or Procedural Failures
Contractors and maintenance crews may skip critical safety steps during shutdowns or restarts, increasing the risk of explosions.
Electrical Sparks or Static Discharge
Electrical equipment that is not properly rated for refinery use may cause sparks capable of igniting flammable vapors.
Injuries Resulting from Refinery Explosions
Explosion injuries are often catastrophic and life-changing. Common injuries include:
- Severe burns and disfigurement
- Traumatic brain injuries from blast pressure or debris
- Crush injuries from collapsing structures
- Broken bones and internal injuries
- Hearing loss from the blast shockwave
- Respiratory injuries from inhaling hot gases or chemicals
These injuries often require long-term hospitalization, surgery, and rehabilitation.
Determining Liability in a Refinery Explosion
Refinery explosions often involve multiple parties whose negligence may have contributed to the disaster. Liability may extend to:
- Equipment manufacturers who provided defective components
- Contractors responsible for poor maintenance or repairs
- Engineering firms that failed to properly design or inspect critical systems
- Vendors who supplied substandard materials
- Safety consultants who failed to identify or address known hazards
A refinery injury lawyer can investigate the specific facts of the explosion to identify all responsible parties.
Compensation Available After a Refinery Explosion Injury
Victims of refinery explosions may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost income and reduced earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Costs of rehabilitation or home modifications
- Emotional trauma
These claims often provide more comprehensive financial recovery than workers’ compensation alone.
Contact Spagnoletti Law Firm
An explosion at a refinery can leave victims facing a lifetime of medical challenges and financial hardship. When third-party negligence contributes to these incidents, it’s important to pursue accountability and fair compensation.
Spagnoletti Law Firm can assist with investigating refinery explosions and pursuing claims against all responsible companies. Call 713-804-9306 for a free consultation. No legal fees are owed unless compensation is recovered.
Spagnoletti Law Firm is here to provide guidance and legal support for victims of refinery explosions.