Oilfield work is one of the most dangerous jobs in the country. Heavy machinery, high-pressure equipment, and flammable materials create constant risks for workers. When burn injuries happen in these settings, the consequences can be life-changing — affecting not just the person injured, but their ability to work and support their family. Severe burns often mean long, painful recoveries, permanent scarring, and challenges returning to work. The impact goes far beyond the physical injuries; it’s about protecting your financial stability and your future.
At Aldous Law, we stand with workers whose lives have been turned upside down by oilfield burn injuries. Our team has decades of experience holding negligent companies accountable and fighting for the compensation injured workers need to rebuild their lives. If you or a loved one has been hurt on the job, it’s important to protect your rights and your family’s well-being. Reach out to Aldous Law today to speak with a Dallas oilfield accident attorney who will advocate for you every step of the way.
Understanding Burn Injuries in Oilfield Accidents
Burn injuries in oilfield accidents can be particularly serious because of the high-risk nature of this work. Oilfield jobs involve heavy machinery, volatile chemicals, high-pressure systems, and the possibility of open flames or explosions, so accidents can happen quickly and often cause severe harm. The physical pain and trauma from a burn injury are just one part of the impact — these injuries can lead to long hospital stays, lasting scars, and even permanent disability. Recovery often requires ongoing medical care and rehabilitation, affecting every part of a worker’s life.
Because of these risks, it’s important for injured workers to get prompt and thorough medical treatment. Getting the right care early can improve recovery and also helps support any legal claims for compensation, including medical bills, lost wages, and long-term care needs.
Common Causes of Burn Injuries in Oilfield Accidents
Oilfield work is naturally risky, putting workers in situations where burns can happen easily and cause serious harm. Flammable materials, pressurized equipment, chemicals, and electrical systems all create scenarios where a small mistake or equipment failure can quickly turn into a major injury.
Some of the most common causes of burn injuries in oilfield accidents include:
- Fires and explosions triggered by equipment malfunction or pipeline ruptures
- Chemical burns caused by exposure to hazardous drilling and extraction substances
- Electrical burns from contact with high-voltage equipment or faulty wiring
- Scalds from hot liquids or steam released during operations
Types of Burn Injuries Oilfield Workers May Experience
Burn injuries in the oilfield can range widely in severity, and the level of compensation often depends on how serious the injury is and the long-term impact on a worker’s life. Minor burns affecting only the top layer of skin may require limited treatment and downtime, while more severe burns can lead to permanent scarring, disability, or even life-threatening complications. Understanding the different types of burns can help workers recognize the seriousness of their injuries and the potential for compensation.
First-Degree Burns – Surface Skin Damage
On oilfield sites, first-degree burns usually happen from brief contact with hot equipment, steam lines, or even intense sunlight during long hours outdoors. These burns may cause redness, irritation, and discomfort, but they generally heal quickly without lasting effects.
Second-Degree Burns – Deeper Tissue Involvement
Second-degree burns are more serious and often occur after prolonged contact with hot drilling pipes, pressurized steam, or scalding fluids like drilling mud. These burns can cause painful blisters and swelling, limiting mobility and requiring time away from work. Improper handling of heated equipment or delayed medical care can make these injuries worse and increase the risk of infection.
Third-Degree Burns – Severe and Potentially Life-Threatening
Third-degree burns happen in more serious incidents, such as flash fires, explosions from gas leaks, or uncontrolled contact with flammable fuels. These burns destroy all layers of the skin and can also damage muscles, nerves, and even bone. Because nerve endings may be destroyed, the injury can initially feel numb rather than painful. Workers who suffer burns this severe often face long, intensive recoveries and life-altering consequences.
Chemical and Electrical Burns – Unique Risks in Oilfield Settings
Chemical burns in the oilfield often happen when workers handle caustic drilling fluids, acid treatments, or other hazardous chemicals that can seep through protective clothing or splash on exposed skin. Electrical burns are another serious risk because of the heavy use of high-powered equipment like generators, welding tools, and pumps. These injuries can cause hidden internal damage, disrupt critical body functions, and require immediate specialized medical care. That’s why following strict safety protocols around chemicals and electrical systems is so important.
Potential Long-Term Effects of Oilfield Burn Injuries
Burn injuries on oilfields can have lasting effects on a worker’s physical health, emotional well-being, and financial stability. Many injuries require ongoing medical care and rehabilitation, and the impact often goes far beyond the initial trauma. Burn victims may face years of treatment and the challenge of adjusting to permanent changes in their bodies and daily lives.
Some potential long-term effects of oil field burn injuries include:
- Physical Complications and Scarring: Chronic pain, limited mobility, and noticeable scars often result from severe burns.
- Emotional and Psychological Trauma: Anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are common among burn survivors.
- Loss of Income and Career Impact: Extended recovery times or permanent disability can lead to loss of livelihood and long-term financial strain.
- Ongoing Medical Treatment and Rehabilitation: Burn injuries may require surgeries, physical therapy, and long-term medical monitoring.
Given the profound and lasting effects burn injuries can have, injured workers need an industrial accident attorney who understands the full scope of these challenges.
Legal Considerations After an Oilfield Burn Injury
If you suffer a burn injury on the job in the oilfield, there are several legal steps you can take to pursue the compensation you need. Knowing what to do can make a big difference in protecting your future and making sure the costs of medical care and lost income are covered.
Steps to Take After an Oilfield Burn Injury
If injured, it is essential to:
- Seek prompt medical attention and document all treatments.
- Report the injury to your employer and ensure an official record is created.
- Gather any evidence related to the accident, such as photographs and witness information.
- Understand your rights under workers’ compensation and explore if third-party claims apply.
- Consult with a qualified attorney who specializes in oil field accidents.
Having an experienced personal injury attorney on your side can make a big difference. They can help ensure that all your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care needs are properly accounted for in your claim, giving you the best chance to recover what you deserve.
How Aldous Law Can Help Burn Injury Victims
Aldous Law has a dedicated personal injury team that understands the oilfield industry and the unique risks it brings. We work to hold negligent employers and other responsible parties accountable, standing up against anyone who tries to downplay claims or deny rightful compensation. With Aldous Law on your side, you have a trusted advocate who will keep you informed throughout the process, fight for the compensation you deserve, and help you focus on your recovery. Contact us today to discuss your options.
