Top Causes of Workplace Injuries in Corpus Christi's Industrial Sector

Corpus Christi is home to a thriving industrial sector, including oil refineries, shipping yards, construction sites, and manufacturing plants. While these industries drive the local economy, they also pose significant risks to workers. Industrial jobs often involve heavy machinery, hazardous materials, and physically demanding tasks, all of which increase the likelihood of workplace injuries. 

Understanding the most common causes of industrial workplace accidents can help employees stay vigilant and ensure they know their rights if an injury occurs.

Slip and Fall Accidents

Industrial workplaces often have slick surfaces, uneven flooring, and cluttered walkways, making slip-and-fall accidents a serious hazard. Workers in refineries, warehouses, and construction sites may encounter spills, loose cables, or poorly maintained flooring, increasing the risk of falls that result in broken bones, head injuries, or spinal damage. 

Employers are responsible for maintaining a safe environment by implementing proper housekeeping practices and ensuring all walking surfaces are secure.

Exposure to Toxic Chemicals

The oil and gas industry, as well as chemical manufacturing plants in Corpus Christi, expose workers to hazardous substances. Inhalation of toxic fumes, accidental spills, or improper handling of chemicals can lead to respiratory issues, chemical burns, or long-term illnesses like cancer or organ damage. 

Employers must provide proper safety gear, ventilation systems, and training to minimize these dangers.

Heavy Machinery Accidents

Industrial workplaces rely on cranes, forklifts, and other large equipment to complete daily tasks. However, poor maintenance, operator error, and lack of training can result in devastating accidents. 

Workers may suffer crushing injuries, amputations, or fatalities if caught in or struck by machinery. Employers must enforce strict safety protocols, conduct regular inspections, and ensure all employees are properly trained on equipment use.

Fires and Explosions

Refineries and industrial plants handle highly flammable materials, making fires and explosions a serious threat. Accidents can occur due to gas leaks, electrical malfunctions, improper storage of hazardous substances, or equipment failures. 

Burns, blast injuries, and smoke inhalation can have life-altering consequences for workers. Proper safety measures, including fire suppression systems and employee training, are critical in preventing these catastrophic events.

Falling Objects and Struck-By Accidents

In warehouses and construction sites, objects falling from shelves, scaffolding, or cranes pose a risk to workers below. Additionally, employees can be struck by moving vehicles such as forklifts, cranes, or trucks, leading to severe head trauma, broken bones, or internal injuries. 

Wearing personal protective equipment, securing materials properly, and maintaining clear communication in high-risk areas can help reduce these accidents.

Protecting Injured Industrial Workers in Corpus Christi

When an industrial worker suffers an injury on the job, workers’ compensation may not be enough to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and long-term recovery. In some cases, third-party liability claims may be an option if defective equipment, negligent contractors, or unsafe working conditions contributed to the accident.

At Edwards Law Firm, our Corpus Christi workplace injury lawyers help injured industrial workers understand their legal options and fight for the compensation they deserve. If you or a loved one has been injured in a workplace accident, contact us today at (361) 320-6752 for a free consultation.