Offshore work is inherently dangerous, especially when safety procedures and equipment protocols are not strictly followed. A recent incident investigated by the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) highlights the serious risks offshore workers face during oil and gas operations. Two contract workers suffered severe burn injuries after a liftboat explosion and fire aboard a during well cleanup and testing activities. The event underscores significant safety lapses that could have been prevented with proper planning, equipment readiness, and emergency response measures.
At Kherkher Garcia, we fight for injured offshore workers and their families. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a liftboat explosion or similar offshore accident, our offshore injury attorneys can help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
What Happened During the Recent Liftboat Explosion?
The Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) has issued a safety alert following an explosion and fire aboard a liftboat engaged in offshore well cleanup and testing operations. The incident resulted in second-degree burns to two contract workers and revealed significant procedural and equipment failures.
The explosion occurred during the draining of fluids from a test separator into a 500-barrel tank. Within five minutes of initiating the operation, a gas buildup on the liftboat deck caused the generator engine to surge, sparking an explosion and multiple fires. The onboard fire suppression system extinguished the fire within 15 minutes. However, there was a nearly five-hour delay in evacuating and transporting the injured workers to a medical facility, highlighting serious gaps in emergency response and evacuation protocols.
BSEE’s investigation identified multiple contributing factors. The incident highlights the urgent need for comprehensive safety procedures, functional equipment checks, and reliable emergency and medical response plans to protect offshore workers during hazardous operations.
BSEE Investigation Findings: Multiple Safety Failures
The BSEE investigation identified several procedural and equipment-related deficiencies that contributed to the explosion and fire. These failures include:
Lack of Formal Procedures
There were no formal procedures in place for draining fluids from the test separator or for preparing the 500-barrel tank for this operation. Workers were left to rely on informal methods that exposed them to hazardous conditions.
Improper Gas Detection Equipment
The crew relied on hydrogen sulfide (H₂S)-specific gas detectors, which do not detect all explosive gas mixtures. This created a false sense of safety and allowed gas to accumulate undetected on the liftboat deck.
Failed Safety Equipment
The air intake shutoff valve on the generator—designed to prevent gas infiltration into the engine—did not function properly. This allowed flammable gas to enter the engine and ignite, triggering the explosion.
Improperly Secured Tank Hatches
The tank receiving the fluids had improperly latched hatches, which allowed gas to escape into the surrounding area. Loose bolts on the hatch, likely caused during transport, were never properly inspected or secured before the operation began.
Inadequate Safety Meetings
Night shift safety meetings lacked oversight by company representatives, reducing their effectiveness and limiting communication about potential risks. Workers also reported holding level controllers open until gas blow-by was detected—an extremely dangerous practice.
Delayed Emergency Response
One of the most concerning aspects of this incident was the nearly five-hour delay in getting the injured workers to a medical facility. Quick medical treatment is crucial for burn injuries, and this delay could lead to complications, infections, or long-term damage.
Injuries Common in Offshore Explosions
The workers in this case suffered second-degree burns, which affect both the outer layer of skin (epidermis) and the underlying layer (dermis). These injuries can cause significant pain, swelling, blistering, and scarring. In more severe cases, they may require skin grafts, surgeries, and months of recovery.
Burns are not the only risks workers face during offshore explosions. Additional injuries may include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Broken bones
- Lacerations and amputations
- Respiratory damage from inhaling smoke or toxic fumes
- Psychological trauma, including PTSD
These injuries often have life-altering consequences, affecting the victim’s ability to work, support their family, or enjoy everyday life.
Who Is Liable for Liftboat Explosions?
Determining liability in offshore incidents can be complex. Multiple parties may share responsibility, including:
- The employer or contractor who failed to provide safe working conditions
- The owner/operator of the liftboat for defective equipment or lack of maintenance
- Third-party vendors who manufactured faulty parts or equipment
- Supervisors or company representatives who failed to enforce safety procedures
Under the Jones Act and other maritime laws, injured offshore workers may be entitled to compensation if negligence played a role in the incident. This includes failure to provide a safe work environment, failure to maintain equipment, and inadequate training or oversight.
At Kherkher Garcia, our legal team thoroughly investigates offshore accidents to identify all liable parties. We work with industry experts, review safety records, and build strong cases to help injured workers obtain justice.
What Compensation Is Available for Burn Injury Victims?
Victims of offshore explosions may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses: including emergency care, hospitalization, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation.
- Lost wages: for time missed from work and diminished earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering: for physical and emotional trauma caused by the injuries.
- Disfigurement or permanent disability
- Punitive damages: in cases where gross negligence or reckless behavior contributed to the explosion.
Each case is unique, and the amount of compensation depends on the severity of the injuries, the impact on the victim’s life, and the degree of negligence involved.
Why You Need an Offshore Injury Attorney
Offshore injury claims are different from typical workplace accidents. They are governed by a complex set of maritime laws, including the Jones Act, the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA), and general maritime law. Navigating these laws requires a legal team experienced in offshore litigation.
At Kherkher Garcia, we specialize in representing injured maritime and offshore workers. We understand the unique challenges these cases present and know how to hold powerful oil companies and contractors accountable.
When you hire our firm, we will:
- Investigate the cause of the explosion
- Collect and preserve evidence
- Work with experts in offshore safety and engineering
- Calculate the full value of your claim
- Negotiate aggressively with insurance companies and corporate defendants
- Take your case to court if necessary
We do not charge any upfront fees. You only pay if we win your case.
Contact Kherkher Garcia After a Liftboat Explosion
The liftboat explosion that injured two contractors was a tragic but preventable event. Offshore workers deserve to feel safe while on the job, and companies must be held accountable when they fail to protect their crews.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an offshore explosion or fire, don’t wait to get legal help. You may be entitled to significant compensation for your injuries and suffering. Our team at Kherkher Garcia is here to fight for your rights and help you rebuild your life.
To find out how our offshore injury attorneys can help you, call us at 713-333-1030, or submit our confidential contact form to learn more. Our consultations are completely free, so you have nothing to lose.
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