Fatal workplace injury causes death of female refinery worker

On Behalf of | Apr 29, 2014 | Workplace Accidents

For an Oklahoma family, having to say goodbye to a loved one as she leaves for work, only to never see her again, is likely to be an extremely traumatic experience. After a death that resulted from a workplace injury, the family may naturally be overwhelmed with grief, and in addition they will also have to face the high costs of a funeral and burial. Before long they will likely be facing financial difficulties due to the loss of income of the deceased family member. A tragedy like this happened to a family in another state some months ago.

After working at a refinery in another state for five years, a female operator was killed in Nov. 2013. She was on duty at a cracking unit that plays a part in the breaking down of the hydrocarbons when crude oil is converted into chemicals and fuel. The furnace that is positioned inside a cracking unit exploded and the woman died as a result.

All businesses have a responsibility to provide their workers with a safe working environment, in accordance with strict safety rules prescribed by OSHA. After a month-long investigation, OSHA delivered citations to the owners of the refinery where the woman was killed. A spokesman of the refinery said the company is in the process of evaluating the citation and penalties received from OSHA.

The family of the woman who lost her life have the right to claim benefits from the workers` compensation fund. Likewise, the families of Oklahoma workers may claim benefits for a workplace injury or death that occur as the result of such injuries. Workers` compensation benefits typically include compensation for medical costs incurred or survivor benefits in the case of death. In addition, these benefits may cover a portion of lost income of the injured or deceased victim. Those who feel that the claiming procedure is confusing or intimidating may take comfort knowing that help is available.

Source: kansascity.com, “OSHA cites Chevron for explosion that killed woman”, , April 25, 2014