Inquiry into oil well deaths to center on clothing

FARGO, N.D. (AP) — Officials say an investigation into an oil well explosion in North Dakota that killed two workers will center on whether the men should have been wearing fire-resistant clothing under a federal safety policy that has drawn criticism from some drilling companies.

The policy, which was outlined by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration last year, spells out when protective equipment such as fire-resistant clothes should be worn by workers to protect against flash fires during drilling operations.

OSHA maintains such equipment saves lives, but some drilling companies and groups have balked — and one even threatened legal action — saying the requirements are too extensive and costly.

The Sept. 14 fire at a newly drilled oil well near Williston killed Brendan Wegner, of Montello, Wis., and Ray Hardy, of Mohall.

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