Industrial Accidents

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Unfortunately for many industrial workers, explosions are all too common and despite all of the advancements in technology and safety procedures, their jobs remain perilous. Explosions can occur in many different workplace environments. Some people have no idea how likely an explosion is to occur in their industry. This issue may seem like a distant problem, but it happens too often to ignore. The following are some statistics related to explosions in the workplace and how to seek the help of a personal injury attorney after an explosion related injury.

Workplace explosions by the numbers

There were 122 worker fatalities in 2012 caused by fire or explosion, according to a study released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The study illustrates that explosions not only occur, but they are far too frequent for comfort. These numbers do represent a significant improvement in worker safety from 100 years ago. However, the numbers show that we are far from eliminating the risk of workplace explosions.

Industries affected by explosions

Workplace explosions can happen in a variety of environments including the chemical, manufacturing, mining, oil, and gas industries. Explosions even occur on construction sites due to improper safety or gas leaks. Oil and gas workers regularly work with caustic and combustible materials which can cause long-term illness or immediate injuries, besides explosions.

Chemical plants commonly experience incidents wherein the wrong mixture can create deadly gas or explosions. Following safety procedures in chemical plants is essential to prevent these tragic incidents. Even simple procedures such as using safety goggles and gloves can mean the difference between life and death in these jobs.

Injuries sustained in workplace explosions

Burns are the first injuries that come to mind when an explosion occurs. While you should not underestimate the risk of severe burns, they are usually the least of the worries associated with workplace explosions. If the force of an explosion is strong enough, it could damage a person’s eardrums, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract. The concussive force can break bones, damage internal organs, and cause brain injuries. Flying debris can inflict severe lacerations and cause internal bleeding, head trauma, and other serious injuries. Workers are often knocked into one another and other heavy equipment, exponentially increasing their injuries.

Explosions are not necessarily the most common cause of injuries in the workplace, though they are among the most damaging. Even if a worker survives an explosion, it often causes significant mental trauma that could result in post-traumatic stress syndrome and other mental illnesses. Explosions may not occur every day in your industry, but that does not mean you should take safety any less seriously.

Legal action for workplace injuries

If you sustained a workplace injury, you may be eligible for legal compensation. The first step should be locating a personal injury attorney to help you navigate the legal process. If you or a loved one have been injured in a workplace explosion, contact Dean Boyd. Call us today at (806) 242-3333 or Contact Us by email to learn more about our services.


 

You can expect to possibly recover lost wages, medical fees, and mental anguish compensation. Contact us for a free consultation to determine the extent of your case.

*The content on this website is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as legal advice. Viewing this information does not establish/constitute an attorney-client relationship with the law firm of Attorney Dean Boyd.