Our Texas Refinery Accident Lawyer Explains the Importance of Machine Guarding and Point of Operation Protection
The steady hum of machinery fills the air in Pasadena's bustling refineries, a constant reminder of the crucial role these facilities play in Texas's thriving energy industry. However, the sounds represent an ever-present danger for refinery workers — the risk of catastrophic injuries due to inadequate machine guarding and point of operation protection.
Effective machine safeguarding is essential to protecting workers from preventable harm. At SJ Injury Attorneys, we understand the devastating impact refinery accidents can have on workers and their families. Our experienced team of Texas refinery accident lawyers is committed to fighting for the rights of those injured in the workplace
Types of Machine Guarding Required in Refineries
Refineries rely on various types of machine guards to ensure worker safety. These include:
- Fixed guards. These permanently attached barriers prevent access to hazardous areas, such as exposed gears or moving parts.
- Adjustable guards. These are barriers that can be adjusted to accommodate various sizes of materials, allowing for flexibility without compromising safety.
- Self-adjusting guards. These barriers automatically adjust to the size of the material being worked, maintaining a consistent level of protection.
- Interlocked guards. These barriers connected to the machine's power source automatically shut off the equipment when opened, preventing accidental start-ups.
OSHA Machine Guarding Standards for Refineries
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has established strict requirements for machine guarding in refineries. These standards, outlined in 29 CFR 1910 Subpart O, mandate that:
- All moving parts, pinch points, and nip points must be guarded to prevent workers from coming into contact with dangerous components
- Guards must be firmly secured and constructed of durable materials to withstand the rigors of the refinery environment
- Point of operation protection must be provided on machines that expose workers to injury, such as presses, shears, and cutting tools
- Revolving drums, barrels, and containers must be guarded by an enclosure to prevent workers from being caught or pulled into the equipment
Machine Guarding Violations in Pasadena Refineries
Despite clear OSHA regulations, machine guarding violations occur in Pasadena refineries. Some of the violations that can hurt workers include:
- Missing or inadequate point of operation guards. A lack of point of operation guards can leave workers vulnerable to severe injuries.
- Improperly adjusted or modified guards. These changes may make the guards ineffective.
- Lack of training. A lack of adequate training about proper machine operation and safety procedures may put workers at risk of injury.
- Failure to establish and enforce lockout/tagout protocols during maintenance and repairs. This may expose workers to unexpected start-ups or energy releases.
Industrial Accidents Caused by Machine Guarding Violations
When machine guarding is inadequate or absent, Pasadena refinery workers face a heightened risk of severe industrial accident injuries, such as:
- Crushed or amputated limbs. Unguarded pinch points and nip points may cause these permanent injuries.
- Lacerations, fractures, and contusions. Contact with exposed moving parts can result in these types of injuries. In some cases, wounds and fractures can require extensive medical treatment and prevent you from working.
- Entanglement injuries. Exposed rotating components may result in dangerous entanglements, which can cause disfigurement, strangulation, or even death.
- Burns, electrical shocks, and explosions. Unguarded energy sources may cause serious accidents that result in injuries that may require long-term care and rehabilitation.
What to Do After a Machine Guarding Accident in a Pasadena Refinery
Prompt action is crucial if you've been injured by a machine guarding violation in a Pasadena refinery. You can begin protecting your rights if you:
- Seek medical attention immediately. It’s essential to get medical help even if your injuries seem minor, as some conditions may worsen over time or have delayed symptoms
- Report the accident to your supervisor and document the incident thoroughly. Include the date, time, location, and circumstances surrounding the event. This creates an essential record of what happened.
- Gather evidence. Evidence may include photographs of the machine and witness statements to support your claim and protect your rights
- Contact an experienced Pasadena refinery accident lawyer. We can discuss your legal options and determine the best course of action for your situation
- Avoid signing any documents or accepting settlement offers before talking to a lawyer. The insurance company wants you to settle as quickly as possible and for as little compensation as you are willing to accept. We can protect your rights and help you get the fair recovery you deserve.