There was an explosion at a construction project in Lynn, Massachusetts on August 19, 2024. According to reports, a worker was injured during demolition work when a pipe he was cutting exploded. The worker was taken to a local hospital for medical treatment. Additional details have not yet been released.
Demolition work presents numerous risks to construction workers, with one of the most severe being the risk of explosions. Explosions during demolition can occur for a variety of reasons, often related to the presence of hazardous materials or the improper handling of demolition charges. For example, if a structure contains old, unstable fuel tanks, gas lines, or chemical storage, even a small spark or miscalculation can trigger a devastating explosion. The force of an explosion can cause catastrophic injuries or fatalities to workers, as well as widespread damage to the surrounding area.
One of the most common causes of explosions during demolition is the improper handling or placement of explosives used to bring down a structure. Demolition teams often use controlled explosions to ensure that buildings collapse in a specific manner, but this requires precise calculations and expert handling. If the explosives are placed incorrectly, or if there is a misfire, the explosion could occur in an unintended direction, putting workers at serious risk. Additionally, the presence of residual hazardous materials within the structure, such as flammable chemicals or gases, can exacerbate the danger, leading to unexpected and uncontrolled explosions.
Another significant risk is the failure to adequately assess and mitigate the presence of hazardous materials before demolition begins. Older buildings, in particular, may contain asbestos, lead, or other hazardous substances that can become explosive under certain conditions. For instance, the buildup of flammable dust or vapors in a poorly ventilated space can create a highly explosive environment. If these materials are not identified and properly handled before demolition, they can pose a grave risk to the safety of the workers. This underscores the importance of thorough site assessments and the implementation of rigorous safety protocols before any demolition work is undertaken.
Finally, the risk of explosions is heightened when there is a lack of clear communication and coordination among the demolition crew. Demolition projects often involve multiple teams working simultaneously on different aspects of the structure. Without clear communication, one team’s actions can inadvertently create conditions that increase the likelihood of an explosion. For example, cutting into a gas line that has not been properly decommissioned or failing to inform all team members of the location and timing of explosive charges can lead to a deadly mistake. Ensuring that all workers are aware of the potential hazards and are in constant communication is essential to preventing explosions and protecting the lives of those involved in the demolition.
Tragically, there have been a number of recent deaths and injuries on construction projects. There was a death at the Tesla Gigafactory in Austin, Texas on August 1, 2024. There was a crane accident in Brooklyn, New York on August 1, 2024. There was a deadly crane accident at an offshore wind farm construction project in Natrona County, Wyoming on August 5, 2024. There was a deadly dump truck accident in Harford County, Maryland on August 6, 2024. A worker was killed after falling from scaffolding in Tomball, Texas on August 7, 2024.
Despite being a vital part of the economy, construction projects often pose severe hazards both to construction workers and to the general public if precautions are not taken. Each construction project poses its own unique risks and hazards based on the work being done. Risks that may present themselves during a project must be carefully evaluated before the job begins.
Our experienced lawyers have handled personal injury and wrongful death lawsuits of all kinds and have the skills needed to represent the families of loved ones who have lost their lives or those who have been seriously hurt. The experienced construction personal injury and wrongful death attorneys at Spagnoletti Law Firm can help you understand your rights if you or a loved one was a victim of an accident at a work site.
Our lawyers have represented numerous workers who have sustained serious and catastrophic injuries on a job site as a result of the negligence of another party. There are strict and short time limits on making claims, so please contact us online or call 713-804-9306 or to learn more about your legal rights.