In the oil and gas industry, few areas are as important yet as hazardous as oilfield tank batteries. Essential for storing, processing, and separating produced fluids from oil and gas wells, tank batteries are critical to oilfield operations. However, they also pose significant risks to workers due to the volatile substances they contain and the high-pressure environment in which they operate.
One example of the hazards of oilfield tank batteries occurred last week when an oilfield tank battery in El Reno, Oklahoma exploded. Videos of the area taken by local residents show the sky lighting up as the explosion rocked the area. Officials reported no injuries, and the cause of the explosion is still under investigation.
In any type of oil and gas incident, it is always a relief when no injuries occur. Unfortunately, more often than not – incidents like the one in El Reno result in serious injuries to those working in or near the oilfield. To help oilfield workers better understand the risks of oilfield tank battery work, our oil and gas injury lawyers have compiled the below guide. In our guide, we explore potential hazards and incidents, discuss the injuries commonly associated with tank battery incidents, and outline how workers can protect their legal rights if they are injured on the job.
What is an Oilfield Tank Battery?
An oilfield tank battery is a grouping of large tanks and other equipment used to store, process, and separate the fluids—primarily oil, gas, and water—that are extracted from an oil well. When oil and gas are brought to the surface, they’re often mixed with water and natural gas. Tank batteries help separate these components through a series of mechanical and chemical processes, which can include:
- Separators: Equipment that separates oil, water, and gas from the production flow stream.
- Heater Treaters: Devices that heat the fluid to help separate oil from water and other impurities.
- Storage Tanks: Tanks that store the processed oil and water before transport.
- Gas Flare Stacks: Systems that safely vent and burn off excess gas.
- Safety Valves and Pressure Monitors: Devices used to control pressure and prevent overflows or leaks.
Due to the flammable materials involved and the complex machinery used, tank batteries require careful management and routine safety procedures. Even minor operational errors or maintenance lapses can lead to dangerous incidents, underscoring the need for strict safety protocols.
Potential Hazards and Incidents in Oilfield Tank Batteries
Oilfield tank batteries present a variety of hazards due to the inherent risks of handling volatile hydrocarbons and working with high-pressure systems. Below are some of the most common hazards and incidents associated with these facilities:
Explosions and Fires
Tank batteries are often at risk of explosions or fires. Hydrocarbons such as oil and gas are highly flammable, and even a small spark can ignite these substances. Explosions may be triggered by equipment malfunctions, electrical sparks, or even static electricity if grounding procedures are inadequate.
Gas Leaks and Poisoning
Oilfield tank batteries handle gases such as methane, hydrogen sulfide, and carbon dioxide. Hydrogen sulfide (H₂S), in particular, is toxic and can be fatal in high concentrations. Leaks can occur due to corroded pipes, faulty seals, or accidental damage to tanks, exposing workers to dangerous fumes and risking asphyxiation or poisoning.
Pressure-Related Incidents
The storage and separation processes at tank batteries often involve high-pressure systems. If safety valves fail or the tanks are overfilled, the excess pressure can result in a sudden release of gas or oil, creating a hazardous work environment and increasing the risk of explosions and fires.
Equipment Failures and Malfunctions
Tank batteries rely on various mechanical components, including pumps, valves, and heaters, which can fail over time. Poor maintenance, manufacturing defects, or simple wear and tear can lead to malfunctions. An equipment failure could release high-pressure fluids or gases, endangering workers nearby.
Chemical Exposure and Spills
Workers at tank batteries may be exposed to hazardous chemicals used in oilfield operations, including solvents, cleaning agents, and processing chemicals. Spills and leaks can lead to chemical burns, respiratory issues, and other serious health concerns.
Falls and Other Physical Hazards
Tank batteries require workers to climb and perform tasks at significant heights. Without proper fall protection equipment, workers may be at risk of falls, which are a leading cause of injuries in the oil and gas industry. Additionally, slips and trips due to oil spills or wet surfaces are common hazards.
Injuries Commonly Caused by Tank Battery Incidents
Due to the range of hazards present, injuries at oilfield tank batteries can be severe. Common injuries that workers may sustain include:
Burn Injuries
Burns are one of the most frequent injuries associated with oilfield tank battery incidents, particularly in explosions or fires. Burns can range from mild first-degree burns to life-threatening third-degree burns, which often require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
Respiratory Injuries and Poisoning
Gas leaks, especially of toxic gases like hydrogen sulfide, can lead to respiratory problems, including chemical pneumonitis and asphyxiation. Acute exposure can cause sudden unconsciousness and, in severe cases, death.
Traumatic Injuries
Explosions, sudden releases of pressure, and heavy machinery accidents can lead to traumatic injuries, including broken bones, lacerations, and concussions. Such injuries may occur when workers are struck by flying debris or machinery.
Head and Spine Injuries
Falls from heights are common in tank battery operations. Head and spinal injuries resulting from such falls can lead to long-term disabilities, including paralysis, cognitive impairment, and chronic pain.
Chemical Burns and Toxic Exposure-Related Illnesses
Workers exposed to chemicals may suffer from skin burns, respiratory issues, or other illnesses that develop over time, such as chronic bronchitis or chemical-induced asthma.
Hearing Loss and Vision Impairment
Explosions and other high-decibel noises can cause hearing damage, while exposure to toxic chemicals can impair vision, especially if workers do not have proper eye protection.
How Workers Can Protect Their Legal Rights
Oilfield workers are entitled to a safe working environment, and if injured, they may have options to seek compensation and justice. Here are ways workers can protect their rights if they are injured in a tank battery incident:
Report the Injury Immediately
Reporting the incident to your supervisor as soon as it occurs is critical. Ensure that the injury is documented with details of the incident, including the time, date, location, and names of any witnesses. This documentation is essential for filing a workers’ compensation claim and can support any future legal action.
Seek Medical Attention
Receiving prompt medical care is vital for both health and legal reasons. A medical professional will document your injuries, providing essential evidence for any potential claim. Follow all medical recommendations and keep copies of medical records and bills, which can be used in your case.
File a Workers’ Compensation Claim
Most oilfield workers are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits, which provide coverage for medical expenses and a portion of lost wages. Filing a claim helps ensure you receive the financial support you need while recovering. However, keep in mind that workers’ comp may not cover all damages, especially if your injuries are severe.
Consult an Experienced Oilfield Injury Attorney
If you believe negligence or unsafe conditions contributed to your injury, consult a personal injury attorney with experience in oilfield injuries. An attorney can assess your case, help gather evidence, and determine whether you may be able to file a third-party liability claim. This may be possible if an equipment manufacturer, contractor, or another third party’s negligence contributed to the incident.
Preserve Evidence of Negligence or Unsafe Conditions
If possible, gather evidence of the conditions that led to your injury. Take photos or videos of the site, document any equipment malfunctions, and save copies of safety reports, inspections, or training materials. Your attorney can use this evidence to help build your case.
Understand Potential Third-Party Claims
In addition to workers’ compensation, oilfield workers may be able to file third-party claims if an outside party was partially responsible. For example, if a faulty valve manufactured by an external company caused an explosion, you may be able to seek damages from that company for negligence or product liability.
How Kherkher Garcia Can Help Injured Oilfield Workers
Navigating an injury claim after an oilfield accident can be complex, especially when third-party liability is involved. Kherkher Garcia’s oil and gas injury lawyers have vast experience handling oilfield injury cases. We understand the unique hazards and challenges workers face in this field. By working with a qualified legal team, you can ensure your rights are protected and maximize your chances of securing compensation to cover expenses such as medical costs, lost wages, and long-term rehabilitation needs.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an oilfield tank battery incident, contact Kherkher Garcia today for a free case evaluation. We can help you understand your rights, gather evidence, and build a strong case for compensation. Oilfield work is dangerous enough – let us handle the legal burdens while you focus on recovery.
Call us today to get started at 713-333-1030. You can also reach out to us online via our online contact form.
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