In the early hours of Monday, May 15, a team of construction workers in the northern part of the Bronx sustained burn injuries following a fire outbreak at their construction site. As per reports from local sources, the incident occurred just before 9 a.m. at a new building under construction on Gun Hill Road in Williamsbridge. According to Norwood News, the fire broke out in an underground area where waterproofing work was being carried out, leading to injuries for four individuals.
Following the incident, a section of Gun Hill Road was closed off to traffic as fire officials, police vehicles, and paramedics rushed to the scene. While one of the injured workers received immediate treatment at the site, the other three were taken to Jacobi Medical Center, located a short distance away. Our thoughts are with them for a speedy and full recovery.
An FDNY spokesperson clarified that the incident did not meet the criteria for a fire but was categorized as a workplace accident. Subsequently, fire marshals initiated a thorough investigation, leading to the issuance of a partial stop work order for the construction site.
Incidents of Fires and Explosions in Construction
The Williamsbridge construction project has a history of safety violations, with the city issuing 25 violations for construction safety in the past year alone. Of these, 12 were still pending at the time of the accident. Additionally, five new violations were issued on the day of the incident for inadequate training and improper use of propane torches.
City officials revealed to CBS News in the summer of 2022 that the general contractor had violated a partial stop work order, exposing workers to unsafe conditions. Apart from insufficient training, a severe violation was noted for poorly maintained safety equipment in an elevator machine room. Mark Stagg, the CEO of Stagg Group, which owns numerous properties in the Bronx, was implicated in these violations.
Each year, construction workers face avoidable workplace accidents related to fires and explosions. According to the National Fire Protection Association, there were approximately 4,300 fires annually at construction sites between 2016 and 2020, resulting in fire department responses. Sadly, these incidents led to an average of five fatalities and 62 injuries each year. With a consistent rise in these numbers since 2014, it is evident that enhanced safety measures are imperative to protect workers.
Fires at construction sites can originate from various sources, including faulty electrical wiring, gas lines, pressurized chemicals, and acetylene. The risks are heightened when flammable materials are in close proximity. Therefore, a comprehensive fire safety plan must encompass proper handling, inspection, and disposal of all hazardous substances.
Support for Burn Injury Victims
Following the traumatic experience of surviving a fire or explosion, the next steps can be daunting. However, having a proficient construction accident attorney can significantly increase the chances of an injured individual receiving due compensation from negligent parties. At Block O’Toole & Murphy, our adept construction accident lawyers boast an unparalleled track record, dedication, and expertise in this domain.
Some of our successful outcomes in fire-related incidents include:
- $5,000,000 settlement for a worker who suffered burns from electric shocks while operating a jackhammer
- $4,000,000 settlement for a worker who sustained third-degree burns and required skin grafts at a Bronx site
- $2,500,000 settlement for a car crash victim who suffered burns in a vehicle fire
To consult with one of our experienced burn injury attorneys today, contact us at 212-736-5300 or fill out our online contact form. We cater to clients in New York and New Jersey.
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Four Construction Workers Burned in Bronx Accident
On a construction site in the Bronx, tragedy struck when four workers were severely burned in a devastating accident. The incident occurred when a gas line ruptured, leading to a fiery explosion that left the workers with serious injuries. The construction workers were rushed to the hospital for treatment, and their condition remains critical.
The Accident
The construction site, located in the Bronx, was in the midst of a routine excavation project when the accident occurred. As the workers were digging, they accidentally struck a gas line, causing a massive explosion that engulfed them in flames. The force of the blast was so powerful that it caused significant damage to the surrounding area, leaving debris scattered across the site.
The Injuries
The four construction workers sustained severe burns to their bodies as a result of the explosion. They were immediately transported to a nearby hospital where they are currently receiving treatment in the burn unit. The extent of their injuries is still being assessed, but it is clear that they face a long road to recovery.
Emergency Response
Emergency responders were quick to arrive at the scene of the accident and worked tirelessly to extinguish the flames and rescue the injured workers. The fire department deployed multiple units to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading to other areas of the construction site. Their swift action helped to minimize further damage and potentially saved lives.
Investigation
An investigation is currently underway to determine the cause of the accident and identify any potential safety violations that may have contributed to the incident. It is crucial that construction companies adhere to strict safety protocols to ensure the well-being of their workers and prevent accidents like this from happening in the future.
Prevention and Safety Measures
Construction sites can be dangerous environments, with hazards lurking around every corner. It is essential for construction companies to prioritize safety and implement proper protocols to protect their workers from harm. Some key safety measures that can help prevent accidents like the one in the Bronx include:
- Regular safety training for all workers
- Strict adherence to safety protocols and regulations
- Proper equipment maintenance and inspection
- Regular safety audits and inspections
Conclusion
The accident in the Bronx serves as a tragic reminder of the importance of workplace safety in the construction industry. Our thoughts are with the injured workers and their families during this difficult time. It is crucial for construction companies to prioritize safety and take all necessary precautions to protect their workers from harm.
Remember, safety should always come first on construction sites to prevent accidents and ensure the well-being of workers.
