Factories and warehouses can pose serious threats to workers and surrounding residents when they are not maintained in safe conditions. When those responsible for adhering to safety regulations fail to do so, they create extreme risks of explosions and dangerous fires. Injuries from these incidents can be life-altering and extremely costly, and a San Bernardino industrial explosion and fire injury lawyer could help evaluate the case and seek compensation from those responsible.
If you were injured due to negligence, reach out to our dedicated workers’ compensation attorney today for a free consultation.
Common Causes of Industrial Explosions and Fires
A complex work site can require attention to many different kinds of safety risks. Often, industrial explosions and fires result from a chain reaction set in motion by negligence and errors. A San Bernardino industrial explosion and fire injury lawyer can help investigate the cause and pursue compensation for those harmed. Here are some of the most common causes.
Improper Storage of Hazardous Materials
Failure to store hazardous materials in compliance with regulations creates serious safety risks. These include gaseous fuels such as propane or butane, flammable liquids like gasoline or ethanol, combustible dusts like grain or coal dust, oxidizers such as sodium chlorite, and reactive chemicals like peroxides. Storing incompatible substances, such as bleach and ammonia, in close proximity creates additional dangers.
Proper storage techniques include clear labeling, segregated materials based on risk, ventilated and temperature-controlled facilities, and routine maintenance checks.
Equipment Failure
Explosions can occur when there is a rupture to a pressurized vessel, such as a boiler or pipe. Other risks include industrial furnaces or kilns that may result in gas leaks, overheated motors, and failing ventilation systems.
Safety procedures require equipment to remain operable through regular maintenance and routine inspections.
Human Error
Even with fully operable equipment and properly implemented storage procedures, explosions and fires can result from human error. Improper training or misuse of equipment by workers increases the risk of injury. Workers smoking in restricted areas can also cause explosions or fires.
Building an Industrial Explosion and Fire Injury Case
When a lawyer takes on a case involving industrial fires and explosions, they rely heavily on their knowledge and training on a complex mix of state and federal regulations. Using information from the California Occupational Safety and Health Act (Cal/OSHA § 6300–§ 6332), California Civil Code (CA Civ § 1714), and federal standards for safety, an industrial fire and explosion injury lawyer in San Bernardino will establish responsibility for the explosion or fire.
In addition to establishing a connection between a negligent act and the incident, a lawyer will also work to document all related losses. These may include emergency medical expenses, ambulance transportation, ongoing medical support, medical supplies and assistive devices during recovery, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
A lawyer files the lawsuit within the statute of limitations and negotiates on the client’s behalf to pursue compensation for the losses. These negotiations often lead to a settlement offer, and the lawyer advises the client on whether to accept or reject it. If the parties do not reach a settlement, the lawyer takes the case to court, represents the client, and builds a strong case using evidence and persuasive legal arguments.
Speak With a San Bernardino Industrial Explosion and Fire Injury Attorney Today
Our San Bernardino industrial explosion and fire injury lawyer is here to help you get the compensation you deserve following one of these serious incidents. Contact us today to evaluate your case and get started on the next steps during a free consultation.
(909) 885-1620