Across the Permian Basin, man camps are increasingly common. These large, temporary housing facilities are built near major energy, oil, and construction sites to accommodate the thousands of workers, brought in to meet project demands in remote areas of West Texas and Southeast New Mexico.
But from Midland to Carlsbad, community members have voiced serious concerns — and with good reason. While man camps may seem like a simple solution for workforce housing, many pose significant safety, health, and security risks. Overcrowding, poor sanitation, and lack of oversight can create dangerous conditions that put hardworking oilfield employees and nearby residents at risk of injury, illness, or even assault.
At Zehl & Associates, our undefeated oilfield accident lawyers have successfully represented thousands of injured oilfield workers across Texas and the United States, securing the largest verdicts and settlements in history. We’ve seen firsthand what happens when companies put profit before safety — whether at the job site or in the housing they provide — and we never stop fighting to hold them accountable.
Here’s everything you need to know about man camps and how they work.
How Man Camps Are Structured
Life in a man camp probably looks a lot like that of a crowded dorm or military barracks. The living sites are usually built from modular or prefabricated housing units. They include:
- Dormitory-style bedrooms or small private units
- Shared bathrooms and shower facilities
- Communal kitchens and dining halls
- Recreation or break areas
- On-site security or check-in systems
The goal is to house large numbers of workers as close to job sites as possible, especially in rural areas where housing options are limited. The modular units can be broken down and rebuilt or relocated to other regions as companies transition to new job sites.
Why Man Camps Are Common in the Oil Industry
Texas has long been a hub for oil and gas operations. When companies open new drilling sites, they need to bring in dozens or hundreds of people to staff them. They may hire crews from across the country.
Instead of asking people to make a permanent move or commute long distances, companies often turn to man camps as a cost-effective solution. However, living in such close quarters for extended periods can create risks for workers, ranging from health concerns to personal safety hazards.
Safety and Health Concerns in Man Camps
Here are some common concerns regarding the safety of man camps:
- Overcrowding: Tight quarters increase the risk of spreading illnesses
- Sanitation: Shared facilities may not be adequately maintained
- Isolation: Remote locations can leave workers with limited access to medical care
- Security Issues: Reports of violence, theft, or unsafe environments have surfaced in some camps
Falling debris is another hazard to be wary of in man camps, especially when they’re being built or broken down.
These conditions can lead to accidents, illnesses, and potentially serious injuries. If you or a loved one has been hurt in one of these unsafe environments, it’s vital to act fast to protect your rights.
Legal and Community Implications
Local governments and community members are often understandably concerned when they find out that a man camp is to be built near them. Moreover, regulations governing worker housing may not always apply to temporary facilities, which can create gray areas for workers and community members.
When unsafe conditions lead to accidents, getting to the bottom of who’s responsible can be difficult. The value of a claim stemming from a particular incident will vary based on who’s at fault and the severity of the resulting injuries. If you’ve been involved in an accident at a man camp, you should speak to a legal professional right away.
Are Man Camps Safe?
Man camps are a practical option for housing large numbers of workers near industrial projects, but they come with risks that can’t be overlooked. If you or someone you care about is going to live in a man camp, it’s important to do what you can to keep yourself safe. Knowing the risks is half the battle.
If you or a loved one has been hurt, contact Zehl & Associates as soon as possible. We offer a free consultation with an Undefeated Texas personal injury lawyer.
Contact an Undefeated Personal Injury Lawyer With Zehl & Associates Today at 888-603-3636
At Zehl & Associates, our undefeated personal injury accident attorneys have won Billions for our clients, including the #1 largest truck accident verdicts and settlements in state history. Call 888-603-3636 today for a free consultation.
Zehl & Associates Injury & Accident Lawyers – Houston
2700 Post Oak Blvd #1000, Houston, TX 77056
(888) 603-3636
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Zehl & Associates Injury & Accident Lawyers – Midland
306 W Wall St Suite 701, Midland, TX 79701
(432) 220-0000
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