As Hurricane Ida grew in strength over the past week, many oil and production companies evacuated their workers to shore. Many wells were shut-in as companies began the preparations for the approaching storm. The storm’s intensity is expected to bring winds well over 100 mph when it hits shore. The expected path takes it over many offshore platforms, producing significant dangers for those workers who are not evacuated beforehand. The strength of the storm is so significant that even before it reached the coast of Louisiana, Governor John Bel Edwards declared a state of emergency.
Reports indicate that a number of companies, including BHP, Chevron, Shell and Equinor have begun evacuations. According to BSEE, workers from 89 production platforms were evacuated for safety. In addition to removing personnel, where a production facility was able to relocated, that was also done.
Safe offshore and maritime companies must make plans ahead of time when severe weather is expected. In the days leading up to a powerful storm like Hurricane Ida, non-essential personnel should be evacuated for their own safety. Platforms and wells must also be prepared for the severe weather. Failing to adequately prepare for the high winds and wave conditions beforehand can result in tragedy.
Spagnoletti Law Firm has handled numerous lawsuits involving offshore platforms on behalf of injured workers from all over the world. Spagnoletti Law Firm previously represented the family members of Filipino offshore workers who were on the Black Elk Energy offshore oil platform that exploded in 2012. Our lawyers have extensive experience in offshore personal injury and wrongful death litigation and the skills needed to represent the families of loved ones who have lost their lives or those who have been seriously injured while working on an offshore platform.
The experienced and aggressive maritime attorneys at Spagnoletti Law Firm can help you understand your rights if you or a loved one was a victim of this tragic accident. There are strict and short time limits on making claims related to offshore accidents, so please contact us online or call 713-804-9306 or to learn more about your rights.