Refineries handle large quantities of hazardous gases as part of their daily operations. While these substances are essential to the refining process, they also pose a significant threat to worker safety when not properly controlled. Toxic gas releases are among the most dangerous incidents that can occur at a refinery, often leading to serious injuries, long-term health problems, or fatalities.
When a toxic gas release happens, it is critical to determine how the incident occurred and whether third-party negligence contributed to the danger. Injured workers may have legal options beyond workers’ compensation, and a refinery injury lawyer can assist in identifying responsible companies and pursuing a claim.
What Causes Toxic Gas Releases in Refineries?
Refineries store and process various gases that become highly dangerous when released into the environment. These incidents can happen suddenly and may affect not only workers but nearby communities.
Some of the most common causes of gas releases in refineries include:
Equipment Failures
Defective or poorly maintained valves, gaskets, and pipelines can lead to leaks of hazardous substances like hydrogen sulfide, sulfur dioxide, or ammonia.
Improper Shutdown or Startup Procedures
Mistakes during maintenance or equipment restarts can release dangerous gas buildups into work areas.
Corrosion and Aging Infrastructure
Older refineries may have corroded pipes or storage tanks that eventually fail, allowing gases to escape.
Contractor Negligence
Third-party contractors involved in equipment installation, repair, or inspections may be responsible if their work contributed to the release.
Health Risks Associated with Gas Exposure
Exposure to toxic gases can cause a range of health problems, depending on the type of gas and the level of exposure.
Short-term exposure symptoms may include:
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Difficulty breathing
- Eye, nose, or throat irritation
- Headaches and nausea
Long-term or high-concentration exposure can result in:
- Respiratory failure
- Permanent lung damage
- Neurological complications
- Cancer or other chronic illnesses
- Death in extreme cases
Hydrogen sulfide, in particular, is highly lethal at certain concentrations, causing rapid unconsciousness and death within minutes.
Identifying Liability in a Toxic Gas Release
While the refining company operating the facility has certain safety responsibilities, many gas release incidents involve the actions or negligence of outside parties. Potential third parties who may be liable include:
- Maintenance companies responsible for faulty repairs
- Equipment manufacturers who supplied defective parts
- Engineering firms that failed to properly design safety systems
- Contractors who failed to follow safety procedures during construction or maintenance
A personal injury lawyer can investigate the incident to determine if a third-party claim can be pursued, allowing injured workers to seek compensation beyond the limitations of workers’ compensation benefits.
Compensation Available After a Toxic Gas Incident
Those harmed by refinery gas releases may pursue damages related to:
- Medical bills and ongoing treatment costs
- Lost income or diminished earning ability
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent health issues or disability
- Future rehabilitation needs
Third-party claims can provide a broader path to financial recovery than workers’ compensation alone.
Speak With a Refinery Injury Lawyer Today
Toxic gas exposure in a refinery is a serious matter that can result in lasting medical and financial consequences. If you or a loved one was injured during a refinery gas leak or exposure event, legal guidance may be critical in identifying liability and recovering compensation.
Spagnoletti Law Firm can assist with evaluating potential claims and determining whether a third party played a role in the incident. Call 713-804-9306 for a free and confidential consultation. You pay no legal fees unless compensation is recovered.
Let the refinery accident lawyers at Spagnoletti Law Firm provide the guidance you need after a refinery injury.