On Thursday, October 10, PEMEX oil refinery experienced a chemical leak that involved hydrogen sulfide in Deer Park, Texas that caused the deaths of two individuals and injured at least 35 others.
According to Harris County Sheriff, Ed Gonzalez, a group of workers were working on a flange when some sort of unknown accident occurred, causing the gas to begin leaking.
The Deer Park Office of Emergency Management was notified of the incident just after 5:20 pm. Gonzalez said it would likely take between seven to eight hours for investigators to determine the location of the incident.
A Press release from the Deer Park Office of Emergency Management reported that 35 PEMEX employees were being assessed for injuries and to determine if they needed medical attention, and two employees were confirmed as deceased.
Dangers of Chemical Leaks in Industrial Settings
Incidents of chemical leaks, like the one that occurred in Deer Park, Texas this week, pose significant dangers to both the workers at the refineries and the surrounding community. The immediate risks include death, serious injuries, and exposure to toxic chemicals.
Beyond the immediate physical danger to those at the site, a chemical leak can have long-term effects on the local environment and public health. The aftermath of a leak can cause nearby residents to be exposed to lingering airborne toxins that can lead to potential health complications. Additionally, there is a risk of water and soil contamination, which may further affect the surrounding community.
Exposure to toxic chemicals can lead to a wide range of side effects, depending on the type of chemical, the duration of exposure, and the amount inhaled, ingested, or absorbed. Common side effects can include:
- Respiratory issues
- Skin irritation
- Neurological symptoms
- Eye damage
- Gastrointestinal problems
- Cardiovascular issues
- Organ damage
- Long-term effects
“This tragic chemical leak in Deer Park is a stark reminder of the serious dangers workers face in industrial environments,” says Gerald Singleton, managing partner and attorney at Singleton Schreiber, “Hydrogen sulfide is an extremely toxic gas, and the exposure suffered by these workers and the surrounding community can potentially lead to long-term health effects.”
“The families who lost their loved ones in this accident, and those who were injured, deserve justice and accountability. It is critical that industries like this one prioritize safety to prevent incidents like this from happening again, not only for the well-being of their employees but for the safety of the whole community.”
Victims of this incident and their families may choose to pursue legal action to obtain compensation for the damages they sustained in this incident. Surviving victims may choose to file a personal injury claim to obtain compensation for their lost wages, medical bills, and more. The families of the deceased may choose to file a wrongful death claim to cover the expenses associated with the loss of their loved one such as funeral and burial expenses, loss of support, and more.