Refineries are filled with elevated work areas — scaffolding, ladders, catwalks, towers, and platforms are part of daily operations. Unfortunately, falls from height remain one of the leading causes of serious injury and death at refineries and industrial plants.
Many of these accidents could be prevented with proper equipment, training, and oversight. When companies or third-party contractors fail to provide safe working conditions, injured workers may have the right to pursue a personal injury claim beyond workers’ compensation benefits.
Why Falls Happen at Refineries
Falls from height typically occur because safety systems break down or are not properly implemented. Common causes include:
Defective Fall Protection Equipment
Harnesses, lifelines, or guardrails that fail due to manufacturing defects or improper installation can directly lead to a fall.
Improper Use of Scaffolding or Ladders
Temporary work platforms or scaffolding systems must meet strict safety standards. When they are erected improperly by contractors or used without inspection, the risk of collapse increases.
Slippery or Unstable Surfaces
Refinery environments often involve slick surfaces from oil, water, or chemical spills. Walking surfaces at height must have appropriate traction or warnings.
Lack of Guardrails or Barriers
Elevated walkways or platforms without guardrails or toe boards create a hazard for workers navigating these areas.
Poor Lighting or Obstructed Vision
Inadequate lighting in high places can prevent workers from seeing hazards, increasing the likelihood of a misstep or fall.
Injuries Caused by Falls from Height
Falls at refineries often result in catastrophic injuries requiring emergency care and long-term medical treatment. Injuries may include:
- Spinal cord damage and paralysis
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Fractured bones and crushed limbs
- Internal bleeding or organ damage
- Death in severe cases
Even non-fatal falls can leave victims facing years of rehabilitation, permanent disability, and lost earning ability.
Identifying Third-Party Liability After a Fall
While workers’ compensation provides limited benefits, many fall accidents involve the negligence of third parties — opening the door to a personal injury claim for full compensation.
Parties who may be liable for a refinery fall injury include:
- Scaffolding companies who provided defective or improperly assembled equipment
- Contractors responsible for maintaining elevated work areas
- Manufacturers of faulty fall protection gear
- Site management companies who failed to enforce safety protocols
A refinery injury lawyer can investigate the incident, gather evidence, and pursue claims against all responsible parties.
Damages That May Be Recovered
Through a third-party claim, injured workers may seek compensation for:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost income and future loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Costs of rehabilitation, physical therapy, or home modifications
Every case is unique, and the amount recoverable depends on the circumstances and severity of the injuries.
Contact Spagnoletti Law Firm
Falls from height at refineries are often preventable with proper safety practices and equipment. When negligence by contractors, manufacturers, or other companies contributes to a fall, injured workers have a right to pursue justice. Spagnoletti Law Firm can assist with evaluating your legal options and determining whether a third-party claim is available after a refinery fall injury.
Call 713-804-9306 for a free consultation. There are no legal fees unless compensation is recovered.