Well Blowouts-How do they happen?

Well Blowouts in Texas: What you need to know!

As a leading oil producer Texas bears a massive responsibility in maintaining, plugging and monitoring oil wells.  Well blowouts are a significant concern in Texas, since as of August 2023 there were approximately 436,193 oil and gas wells being monitored by the Texas Railroad Commission. A well blowout is a catastrophic event that can cause extensive environmental damage, endanger human lives, and lead to substantial economic losses. At The Low Law Firm we want to educate you and shed light on the common causes of well blowouts, prevention measures, plugging and abandonment processes, and who bears responsibility for damages and injuries.

What are some Common Causes of Well Blowouts?

1. Pressure Control Failure: The most frequent cause of well blowouts is the inability to control underground pressure. If the pressure from the reservoir exceeds the pressure applied by the drilling fluids, a blowout can occur.
2. Equipment Failure: Malfunctions in critical equipment, such as blowout preventers (BOPs), can lead to uncontrolled releases of oil and gas.
3. Human Error: Mistakes made during drilling operations, such as misjudging pressure levels or incorrect equipment handling, can precipitate blowouts.
4. Natural Events: Earthquakes or other natural occurrences can destabilize wells, leading to blowouts.
5. Inadequate Maintenance: Failure to regularly inspect and maintain wells and equipment can result in weaknesses that could cause blowouts.

What is being done to preventing Well Blowouts?

1. Blowout Preventers (BOPs): These are critical safety devices designed to shut off wells in emergencies. Regular testing and maintenance are crucial.
2. Proper Training: Ensuring that personnel are well-trained in pressure management and emergency procedures.
3. Pressure Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of well pressure to detect any anomalies early.
4. Regular Inspections: Routine inspections of wells and equipment to identify and rectify potential issues.
5. Well Design: Designing wells with appropriate casing and cementing to handle expected pressures.

Plugging and Abandoning Wells

When a well reaches the end of its productive life, it must be properly plugged and abandoned to prevent environmental hazards. In Texas, there are approximately 7,887 “orphaned wells.”  The Texas Railroad Commission defines an “orphaned well” as any oil or gas well that is inactive and without an operator’s financial assurance represented by an active P-5 with the Commission within the previous 12 months.  The Commission has requirements in place for operators to plug these wells.

The process involves:

1. Setting Plugs: Plugs made of cement or mechanical barriers are placed in the wellbore to seal it off.
2. Cementing: Cement is pumped into the well to isolate different sections and prevent fluid migration.
3. Surface Restoration: The well site is restored to its natural state, removing any surface equipment and contamination.

Responsibility for Plugging Wells: The responsibility for plugging wells lies primarily with the well operator. In Texas, regulations require operators to follow specific guidelines to ensure safe and effective plugging. The Texas Railroad Commission oversees the enforcement of these regulations.  However, all to often operators are non-compliant and oversight is incredibly difficult.

Responsibility for Damages from Well Blowouts

When a well blowout occurs, determining liability can be complex:

1. Operator Liability: Generally, the operator of the well is responsible for any damages resulting from a blowout, including environmental damage, property damage, and personal injuries.
2. Contractors and Service Companies: In some cases, contractors or service companies working on the well may share liability, especially if their actions contributed to the blowout.
3. Insurance: Operators typically carry insurance to cover potential damages from blowouts. However, the extent of coverage and the specific terms can vary.

FAQ: Injuries and Involvement in Well Blowouts

Q: What should I do if I’ve been injured in a well blowout? A: Seek immediate medical attention and report the injury to your employer. It’s also advisable to consult with a personal injury attorney to understand your rights and potential compensation.

Q: Who is responsible for medical expenses if I’m injured in a blowout? A: The operator of the well is generally responsible for medical expenses. Workers’ compensation may also cover some costs, depending on the circumstances.

Q: Can I sue for damages if a blowout affected my property? A: Yes, property owners affected by a well blowout can file claims against the well operator for damages. Consulting with an attorney specializing in environmental law or property damage can provide guidance.

Q: How can I find out if a well near my property is properly maintained? A: You can check with the Texas Railroad Commission, which maintains records of well inspections and violations.

Q: What compensation can I expect if a blowout impacts my land or health? A: Compensation can include medical expenses, property repairs, loss of income, and sometimes punitive damages, depending on the severity of the impact and the negligence involved.

Well blowouts are serious incidents with far-reaching consequences. Understanding their causes, implementing stringent prevention measures, and knowing the responsibilities for plugging wells and managing blowout damages are crucial for minimizing risks. For those affected by well blowouts, knowing your rights and the proper steps to take can help in seeking appropriate compensation and recovery.  If you have questions or have been injured in an oil field accident, call The Low Law Firm in Abilene, Texas at (325) 455-1889.

By staying informed and vigilant, we can better manage and mitigate the risks associated with oil and gas drilling in Texas and keep Texans safe!