West Texas Well Service Cited After Oil Rig Explosion Killed Three Workers

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LUBBOCK (AP) - Federal safety regulators have cited a West Texas well service company after an oil field rig explosion killed three workers.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration proposes more than $50,000 in fines against Mason Well Service of Odessa.

The company was cited for one repeated and five serious workplace violations in the March 10 accident near Rankin as workers installed a blowout preventer.

The victims were Arturo Martinez Sr., Arturo Martinez Jr. and Rogelio Salgado. All three were related.

OHSA says Mason Well Service failed to prevent contact between an ignition source and flammable liquids and gases, and did not ensure workers wore personal hydrogen sulfide monitors and flame-retardant clothing.

Mason Well Service didn't immediately comment Friday. It has 15 business days to comply or contest the findings announced Tuesday.

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