Explosions can occur in all kinds of settings including homes, job sites, roadways, factories, restaurants, etc.
Most uncontrolled explosions are accidents that occur as the result of negligence in the form of operator errors, safety hazards or carelessness. Consequently, persons injured by blasts face extremely serious and potentially deadly injuries.
Explosion categories
Blasts happen when there is a rapid volume increase of a substance inside a vessel that suddenly ruptures. Explosion categories include:
- Electrical: an arc rapidly heats and vaporizes surrounding metals, insulation and consumables
- Chemical: a flame or spark meets a gas or substance that produces a violent oxidation reaction
- Mechanical: a high-pressure gas causes a physical change leading to the failure of a container
Common blast injuries
There are many ways an explosion can cause bodily harm. Some injuries are acute while others may take time to present.
- Blastwave injuries: the result of skin contact with a blast wave that damages the eyes, ears, brain, lungs or belly
- Airborne debris injuries: occurs when an explosion releases fragments that strike or penetrate the body causing lacerations or impalements
- Impact injuries: happen when a blast wind launches a body into a hard surface, leading to bruising, sprains, broken bones, traumatic brain injuries and traumatic amputations
Catastrophic injuries can have life-altering consequences for those who experience a blast first-hand. If you are the victim of a personal or workplace injury due to someone else’s negligence, you may face a lengthy battle for your health, wellness and financial security going forward. It is important to learn about your rights and entitlements under the law.