2013 marks the 25th anniversary of the disastrous Piper Alpha incident, the explosion of a North Sea oil platform that caused the deaths of over 160 offshore workers. Investigations ultimately pinned the accident on human error, and various reforms were made throughout the oil industry to improve safety condition in that area.
However, the anniversary of the accident has sparked speculation about what other safety issues the industry needs to address in the current era. One expert suggests that the equipment on many North Sea oil platforms, and perhaps elsewhere, is in need of replacement before another serious incident occurs.
Much of the current oil platform technology is up to thirty or forty years old and has been in constant operation for that time. While it has all been maintained, there comes a point when things need to be replaced or simply should be switched out due to better technology.
Recent incidents, such as a crane accident on a North Sea platform earlier this year, have spurred speculation that while the last disaster was human error, the next catastrophe may end up being due to mechanical failure if steps are not taken. Oil companies are being urged to inspect their equipment thoroughly and not to cut corners on replacements in order to avoid a repeat of the high fatal accident twenty-five years ago.
Even when everything and everyone are working properly, offshore work is a dangerous profession. It is better to be prepared in case an accident does happen. Anyone involved in this type of work should have a maritime injury attorney selected and ready should the worst occur. If you are an offshore worker, especially if you’ve already suffered injury, don’t put off contacting Kirkendall Dwyer LLP to learn more about what you are entitled to.
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