There are hundreds of reported explosions in the United States each year. The impact of an explosion on individuals and the surrounding community in some cases can be very great. When an explosion occurs, it is normally due to a series of events leading up to the blast. The events can take place over an extended period of time and eventually result in the explosion itself. Ultimately, one or more individuals will usually bear legal responsibility for the occurrence of an explosion.

In the aftermath of the explosion, victims can face a number of challenges, including painful injuries and extended medical care. Serious and permanent injuries are also a concern, along with other types of damage to property and the surrounding environment.

The unfortunate reality is that explosions usually take place due to human error or negligence. In most cases, there are things that could have been done to prevent the explosion from occurring in the first place. Adopting and following safety standards is probably the most effective way to avoid the devastation that can be caused by an explosion.

If you or a loved one have been injured in a blast, you may have legal rights. Here at Burg Simpson, our team of national explosion accident attorneys is here to help you recover compensation when you have been injured due to an explosion that was not your fault. Give us a call to see how we can help.

What Causes an Explosion?  Helping Clients Understand the Potential Risks of Explosions and How to Stay Safe

There are many different types of explosions. The most commonly occurring are those involving natural substances such as natural gas, propane, butane, and coal. Explosive substances such as fertilizers and even intentional blasting using dynamite are common culprits of an explosion.

An explosion is simply the result of a natural process whereby a combustible or explosive unstable substance interacts with a second material, causing a series of chemical reactions. The chemical reactions generate a massive amount of energy, leading to the explosion itself. The results can be destructive for nearby individuals and property.

Injury Risks from Explosions

Perhaps the most common risk of an explosion is the risk of physical injuries due to the blast. The Centers for Disease Control defines injuries from explosions into four different categories:

  • Primary: Resulting from direct contact between the body and the explosion wave itself. Some common primary injuries are lung rupturing, TBIs, facial and eye injuries, and internal abdominal damage.
  • Secondary: Resulting from debris and projectiles from the explosion site. These are penetrating injuries to any part of the body from flying objects.
  • Tertiary: These injuries occur when individuals are thrown from the explosion due to the force of the blast. Most commonly, this causes blunt force trauma and head injuries due to striking objects.
  • Quaternary: Any other type of injury not classified above. Includes long-term injuries such as diseases and illnesses caused by smoke inhalation and exposure to toxic materials and gases.

Property Damage

In addition to physical injuries, an explosion can also cause property damage. The structure where an explosion occurs may be completely demolished due to the blast. Additionally, surrounding structures can also be impacted depending on the strength of the explosion. Nearby homes and businesses may be affected by cleanup and demolition for weeks and months following the explosion.

Environmental Impacts

One area of fallout from explosions that is often overlooked is the environmental impact of the blast. Due to the fact that explosions often release dangerous chemicals into the air and the ground, all areas of life may be impacted. Some common environmental hazards from an explosion include:

  • Polluted air
  • Release of dangerous radioactive material
  • Contaminated groundwater
  • Contaminated drinking water
  • Polluted soil and agricultural land
  • Death and destruction of natural resources including mammals and marine wildlife

Taking Appropriate Safety Measures

Given the long list of damage that can be caused by an explosion, it is vital to take appropriate safety measures in order to reduce or eliminate the chances of occurrence. There are several things that can be done to make potential explosion sites safer.

  • Following Government Regulations: The United States government and its agencies, including the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) have adopted rules and regulations governing dangerous industries such as the construction industry. These rules and regulations are designed to create processes that focus on safety and eliminating the actions that increase the chances of an explosion
  • Training and Education: Training workers in key areas, such as demolition and blasting, can greatly reduce the odds of an explosion. Most explosions result from some form of human error. With better training and education, this error is less likely to occur
  • Routine Inspections: Faulty and damaged pipes are a main cause of many industrial explosions. A regular inspection of these components can ensure proper safety and security in the areas where the most hazardous materials are housed.
  • Manufacturing Standards: Some explosions, including gas appliance explosions, occur because of a manufacturing defect. Product makers must ensure that all production of goods and household materials meet high standards of quality control.
  • Use Products as Intended: Homeowners and individuals come into contact daily with products that can cause explosions if used improperly. Individuals must always heed all product safety warnings and use the product only in the manner in which it was intended while taking appropriate safety precautions.

National Explosion Accident Attorneys

An explosion accident has the potential to cause great destruction and damage. Both personal injuries, as well as property damage, are likely to occur. Using an appropriate level of care and caution, the risks of many types of explosions can be lessened or even eliminated. Still, serious explosions can and will take place.

If you or a loved one have been injured in a blast, you may have a claim for compensation. Our United States explosion accident attorneys at Burg Simpson will evaluate your case at no charge. We have the skills and experience necessary to hold the proper parties accountable for their actions. To speak with a member of our team, please reach out to us using our online intake form or give us a call at (866) 695-2112.