In Ohio, there are steel mills and businesses that use tools and materials with a risk of combustion. Unfortunately, some workers have been badly hurt or killed as a result of explosions working in these conditions.
Recently, there was a tragic report about an explosion at the N.E. Ohio TimkenSteel plant in Canton, Ohio, which draws attention to the importance of maintaining all work tools and making sure workers have information about safety in the workplace.
In that case, one worker passed away around a month following the explosion in late July 2022. Two others were injured in the explosion, which was allegedly a result of trouble in the furnace room.
This case is just one example of how quickly things can go wrong and why the right PPE, safety training and maintenance makes a difference.
Explosions are more common than you think
In 2020, there were 984 explosions in the United States. Not all of these happened in workplaces, but for those that did, people were often injured.
Knowing what to do in the case of an explosion is essential. Workers need to:
- Start by taking cover when possible. If there is a fire after an explosion, fleeing the area (when possible) is the best course of action. If anyone has been injured, those around them should attempt to get them to safety when there is a real risk of additional injuries if they remain where they are.
- Avoid elevators. If the explosion happened upstairs, look for stairwells, especially those with windows, to try to find an escape route.
- Get outside and away from the building.
- When the emergency teams arrive, seek medical help.
After you’re caught up in an explosion at work, you will likely have the right to make a workers’ compensation claim for the injuries you’ve suffered. Seek medical attention as soon as you can, and know that you can look into making your claim after you’re medically stable. You and your family may benefit from the claim, which could provide you with the money you need as you focus on your recovery.