JEFFERSON COUNTY, Texas (KTRK) -- An investigation is underway following a tragic industrial accident that claimed the lives of three workers and left two others injured at the Port Arthur LNG construction site early Tuesday morning. The incident occurred around 2 a.m. at the site located at 3570 S. Gulfway, where scaffolding collapsed, sending employees falling to the ground.
The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office reported that the three employees, all working for Bechtel, were involved in the mishap. According to officials, "some type of mishap occurred that caused the scaffolding to give way, resulting in three employees falling to the ground." Two of the workers were pronounced dead at the scene, while the third was rushed to a local hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
In addition to the fatalities, two other employees who managed to remain on the scaffolding were hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries. The identities of the deceased and injured workers have not yet been disclosed, as authorities continue to investigate the incident.
Bechtel, the engineering company overseeing the Port Arthur LNG project, expressed its condolences in a statement released shortly after the accident. "We are deeply saddened to confirm a tank jump form system incident occurred at elevation on April 29 at the Port Arthur LNG construction site, resulting in three fatalities and two injuries. Our thoughts are with the families and our colleagues affected by this tragic incident," the company stated. They also announced that all work at the site had been immediately halted, and all craft professionals were sent home early to be with their families during this difficult time.
As part of their commitment to safety, Bechtel emphasized that they are cooperating fully with local authorities during the investigation and have initiated their own internal review of the incident. "Supporting those impacted and ensuring site safety remain our top priorities," the statement added.
The Port Arthur LNG project, which has been in development since Bechtel signed an Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) agreement for the project in 2018, is currently in the process of completing its first phase, which is valued at $10.5 billion. The first two trains of this phase are scheduled for completion in 2027 and 2028.
This incident raises significant concerns about safety standards in construction, particularly in high-risk environments such as LNG projects. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has been notified and is expected to play a role in the investigation as well.
Scaffolding, which is used extensively in construction to support workers and materials, is typically made from metal poles and wood planks. While it is a common tool in the industry, the dangers associated with scaffolding collapses can lead to severe injuries or fatalities, as evidenced by this tragic event.
As the investigation unfolds, many are left questioning how such a catastrophic failure could occur and what measures will be implemented to prevent similar incidents in the future. The loss of life in this accident has not only devastated the families involved but has also sent ripples through the local community and the construction industry at large.
Local officials and community members are expressing their condolences to the families of the victims, emphasizing the need for improved safety protocols to protect workers in high-risk environments. The Port Arthur area, known for its industrial activity, remains vigilant in ensuring that safety is prioritized at all construction sites.
In light of this incident, it is crucial for construction companies to reassess their safety measures and training programs to prevent such tragedies from occurring again. The emotional toll on the families affected is immeasurable, and the community is rallying to support them in their time of need.
As investigations continue, further details regarding the circumstances of the scaffolding collapse and the safety practices at the Port Arthur LNG site are expected to emerge. Bechtel has pledged to provide updates as more information becomes available.
In the meantime, the Port Arthur LNG project, which is a significant undertaking in the energy sector, faces uncertainty as work remains paused. The focus now is on safety, recovery, and the families of those who lost their lives in this tragic accident.
