Working in close proximity to high pressure industrial machinery naturally involves a certain level of risk. Companies in Colorado and across the country are often required to have employees that are trained in the operation of similar machines nearby while they are in use. However, even with a worker present, an accident can still take place, which may result in a serious workplace injury.
A recent accident in another state claimed the lives of three individuals and sent 4 others to the hospital with severe injuries. The incident involved an industrial boiler that exploded and travelled 500 feet before crashing through the ceiling of another building. One of the deceased individuals was apparently an engineer assigned to oversee the operation of the boiler, while the other two people that died were working in the other building.
Fire officials have advised that an initial investigation does not show evidence of foul play. Reportedly, a more in-depth investigation into the inspection and maintenance of the boiler will soon be underway. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, the company that houses the boiler has been fined for several previous incidents, some of which involved defective equipment, over the past three years.
A severe/fatal workplace injury can lead to various financial hardships that are often difficult to overcome. When facing a similar situation, victims or surviving family members may choose to speak with an attorney in Colorado for assistance in seeking relief through the workers’ compensation benefit system. If a third-party is deemed responsible for the incident in any way, an individual may also be entitled to compensation accordingly.
Source: wzzm13.com, “3 dead, 4 injured in boiler explosion near Soulard”, Ashley Cole, April 5, 2017