4 Construction Workers Injured in Explosion in Piscataway
Explosions are serious events that can cause physical damage, injuries, and deaths. A recent explosion in New Jersey injured four construction workers.
The incident happened on the afternoon of January 5 along Route 287 in Piscataway. It occurred at a construction site, where workers were repairing the overpass at River Road.
A high pressure test of a new gas line was conducted. This led to an explosion, but fortunately, no gas was involved in the blast. It was an air explosion.
Four workers were injured and taken to a local hospital. Two of the workers suffered serious injuries. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) arrived at the construction site to investigate.
Gas Explosions
Explosions can occur when new gas lines are being tested, as was the case here. However, in many of these explosions, gas is involved, and the results can be deadly. These explosions can also cause serious injuries to those nearby, as well as property damage.
Several types of gas that can cause explosions include natural gas, propane, methane, and butane. Explosions can occur due to the following:
- Appliances are installed incorrectly.
- Appliances are not properly maintained.
- A gas furnace, stove, or other appliance is used incorrectly.
- Gas lines are old, rusty, or damaged.
- Gas operated equipment is defective.
- There are faulty propane tank tubes or valves leaking gas.
When a gas leak causes an explosion, there may be several possible liable parties. The manufacturer or seller of the appliance could be liable if they made or sold a defective appliance. The installer of the appliance could also be held liable. There may also be several parties at fault when a defective valve causes the gas leak and bad electrical wiring causes a spark.
Although the likelihood of a gas explosion is pretty rare, it’s very important to ensure your home is as safe as it can be. Be aware of any warning signs and act quickly if you suspect a problem.
Your best course of prevention is to know and trust your home is safe. Have your systems checked regularly by a professional. Older homes with older HVAC systems tend to have a greater incidence of gas leaks, so get them inspected.
Also, be familiar with the “rotten egg” smell of carbon monoxide. The nasty smell is added to the otherwise odorless gas to alarm people when gas is present in the home or workplace. If you smell gas, or if you think you smell gas, leave the premises and call 911 as soon as possible.
Contact a New Jersey Personal Injury Lawyer Today
Workplace accidents can lead to catastrophic injuries, especially when on or near a construction site. Construction sites have many dangerous elements that can injure others.
Injured in the workplace? Contact a Morristown work-related accident attorney from The Law Offices of Michael P. Burakoff. We’ll help you understand your options, such as workers’ compensation benefits and lawsuits. Schedule a free consultation today by filling out the online form or calling (973) 455-1567.
Source:
cbsnews.com/newyork/news/4-workers-injured-in-explosion-at-construction-site-along-route-287-in-piscataway-n-j/