Many of our readers know that the oil and gas industry plays a large role in the California economy. This is especially true in the areas surrounding Los Angeles. Unfortunately, these workers may be facing more risk of a work-related injury than workers in other capacities.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, reports show that workers in the oil and gas industry suffered non-fatal injuries at a rate of 4.6 per 100 full-time workers in a recent year. This was slightly above the 4.2 per 100 rate for all full-time workers.
While the rate of the occurrence of injuries is seemingly only slightly higher in the oil and gas industry, it is the severity of the injuries that is most alarming. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the average amount of days away from work for workers who suffer a work-related injury in the oil and gas industry is about 30 days. This is much higher than the average amount of days away from work for all other full-time workers: 7 days.
Some workers who are injured in the oil and gas industry may be unable to work for even more significant periods of time. And others may never be able to return to work at all if their injury results in a permanent or long-term disability. California residents who find themselves in this type of situation may be able to qualify for Social Security Disability benefits. To receive those benefits, Californians may want to discuss their situation with an experienced disability attorney.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, “Oil and Gas Industry Fatal and Nonfatal Occupational Injuries,” Accessed April 19, 2015
