Experienced Portland Oregon Plant Explosion Lawyer
Portland Plant Explosion Attorney
Find out why we have some of the best Portland plant explosion attorneys
Have You or a Loved One Been Injured in a Plant Explosion in Portland, Oregon?
Goldberg & Loren are experienced plant explosion lawyers who are ready to fight for your rights and get you the compensation you deserve.
Contact Goldberg & Loren to schedule a free consultation today.
What is a Plant Explosion Lawyer?
Explosion lawyers at Goldberg & Loren handle a wide range of cases involving plant explosions, including but not limited to boiler explosions, natural gas explosions, and explosions caused by manufacturing defects. We collaborate with experts in various fields to conduct thorough investigations, gather evidence, and build strong cases based on their findings.
Our explosion lawyers at Goldberg & Loren provide necessary legal guidance to individuals or businesses affected by plant explosions.
If you have suffered as a result of a plant explosion tragedy, our goal is to fight for you and support you through the legal process.
Causes of Plant Explosions
Faulty Equipment
Plant explosions can occur when equipment such as boilers, pipes, or electrical systems fail. This can be due to poor maintenance, design flaws, or manufacturing defects. The failure of these components can lead to pressure build-up, sparks, or electrical malfunctions, resulting in a potentially catastrophic explosion.
Propane Tanks
Propane is commonly used in industrial settings for various purposes, including heating, fueling machinery, and power generation. Mishandling or leaks in propane tanks can expose workers to the risk of explosions. A spark or ignition source in the presence of leaked propane can quickly lead to a powerful blast.
Chemical Spills
Chemical plants or facilities that handle hazardous substances face the risk of explosions caused by chemical spills.
Volatile organic compounds, flammable liquids, or gases can ignite if exposed to heat, sparks, or certain substances, triggering a violent explosion. [1]
Workplace Negligence
Poor safety practices, inadequate training, or negligence by employers can contribute to plant explosions.
Failure to implement safety protocols, conduct regular inspections, or address hazardous conditions can increase the likelihood of accidents and explosions in the workplace.
Between 2011 and 2015, municipal fire departments in the U.S. responded to an estimated average of 37,910 fires at industrial or manufacturing properties each year, with annual losses from these fires estimated at 16 civilian deaths, 273 civilian injuries, and $1.2 billion in direct property damage. [2]
Types of Explosions
Boiler Explosions
Boiler explosions can have devastating consequences, particularly when they occur in plants or industrial settings. These explosions are often caused by a variety of factors, including improper maintenance, faulty equipment, or human error. When a boiler explodes in a plant, it can result in severe injuries, property damage, and even loss of life.
The implications of boiler explosions are far-reaching. Not only can they cause immediate harm, such as burns or respiratory injuries, but they can also lead to long-term health problems for those affected. The property damage caused by a boiler explosion can be extensive, resulting in costly repairs and potential business interruptions.
Injuries resulting from boiler explosions can include burns, fractures, traumatic brain injuries, and even death.
Property damage can include structural damage, fire damage, and damage to surrounding equipment or infrastructure. The financial and emotional toll of these incidents can be significant.
Among the most devastating of accidents likely in the chemical process industry is the boiling liquid expanding vapor explosion (BLEVE). It is accompanied by highly destructive blast waves and missiles. In most situations, there is also a fireball or a toxic gas cloud. [3]
Natural Gas Explosions
Natural gas is an extremely combustible substance that, when mixed with certain conditions, can ignite and cause explosions.
Some common factors that can contribute to natural gas explosions include inadequate maintenance, faulty equipment, improper storage, gas leaks, and inadequate training of employees. [4]
Chemical spills involving natural gas can result in explosions and fires. In industrial settings, mishandling or accidents during transportation can lead to devastating consequences.
Industrial Accidents
Industrial accidents are incidents that occur within the workplace and result in injuries to workers. These accidents can have significant consequences, including physical harm, emotional trauma, and financial burdens for the individuals involved.
Certain workers in Oregon face an elevated risk of industrial accidents due to the nature of their jobs. Those working with heavy equipment or handling volatile materials, for example, are more susceptible to accidents resulting from machinery malfunctions, explosions, or chemical spills.
Negligence is often a factor in industrial accident lawsuits. Plaintiffs must demonstrate that the responsible party failed to meet a reasonable standard of care, resulting in the injuries sustained.
In 2021, there were approximately 860 explosive incidents reported across the United States. This is a significant decrease from the previous year when there were 984 explosive incidents registered across the country. [5]
Potential Legal Action
When workers in Portland, Oregon, are involved in industrial accidents, they may have grounds to pursue legal action against negligent third parties. From machinery malfunctions to explosions and chemical spills, these accidents can result in serious injuries that require medical treatment and may cause financial hardships.
Goldberg & Loren lawyers are experienced in handling cases involving industrial accidents and can help individuals explore their options for potential legal recourse.
If an injured worker can prove that the responsible party was negligent, such as through improper equipment maintenance or inadequate safety protocols, they may be eligible for compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
District Court Proceedings
The district court has jurisdiction to hear cases related to plant explosions and has the authority to determine liability, award compensation, and hold responsible parties accountable.
The court follows specific procedures to ensure a fair legal process. These procedures include filing lawsuits, gathering evidence, presenting arguments, and examining witnesses.
Holding responsible parties accountable is another important function of the district court. This includes not only individuals but also entities such as manufacturers of building products or commercial engine manufacturers.
Civil Penalties Against Employers
In the context of plant explosions, employers may face civil penalties for their actions or negligence. These penalties aim to hold them accountable and deter similar incidents in the future.
When a plant explosion occurs, and it is determined that the employer’s conduct contributed to the accident, they may be subject to civil penalties imposed by regulatory authorities.
These penalties can vary depending on the severity of the explosion, the extent of the damage caused, and the number of injuries or fatalities involved.
Under Oregon law, the Oregon Government Ethics Commission oversees the filing of complaints against employers for ethical misconduct, which includes actions that may have led to a plant explosion.
If a complaint is filed, the commission will conduct an investigation to review the evidence and hear testimonies from witnesses.
Qualifications for a Portland Oregon Plant Explosion Lawyer
Wide Range of Knowledge and Experience
Our attorneys are well-versed in the intricacies of occupational safety and health laws, and we strive to protect the interests of our clients. We have successfully defended clients in cases involving workplace accidents, industrial accidents, and other safety-related issues.
Legal Advice in Complex Cases
Goldberg & Loren guides you through the intricacies of the legal process, helping you understand your rights and options. We can provide guidance on filing insurance claims, pursuing legal action, and seeking compensation for damages and injuries sustained.
In complex cases, there may be multiple parties involved, including the plant owners, contractors, equipment manufacturers, and insurance companies. We have the expertise to analyze the evidence, identify liable parties, and build a strong case on behalf of our clients.
We will advocate for your rights in settlement negotiations or in the courtroom if your case goes to trial.
Compensation from a Plant Explosion
Medical expenses may include hospital bills, doctor visits, surgeries, medications, and ongoing therapy or rehabilitation. These costs can quickly add up, especially if your injuries are serious or require long-term care.
Victims of plant explosions may be entitled to compensation for lost wages.
If the injuries sustained from the explosion prevent you from working temporarily or permanently, you can claim the income you would have earned during this time period.
Compensation can also account for the physical and emotional pain and suffering endured as a result of the incident. This includes not only the immediate trauma but also long-term consequences and emotional distress experienced.
Have you or a loved one been injured in a plant explosion in Portland, Oregon?
Our team of skilled Portland personal injury attorneys will fight for your rights and work to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. You don’t have to face this difficult time alone.
Contact Goldberg & Loren today for a free consultation.
Sources:
[1] Industrial Plant Explosions | Severe Fire Victim Services. (n.d.). Industrial Plant Explosions | Severe Fire Victim Services. https://sfvictimservices.org/explosions/industrial/
[2] NFPA report – Fire in Industrial or Manufacturing Properties. (n.d.). https://www.nfpa.org/News-and-Research/Data-research-and-tools/Building-and-Life-Safety/Fires-in-US-Industrial-and-Manufacturing-Facilities
[3] A., & A. (2020, January 11). Understanding & managing boiling liquid expanding vapor explosion. INDUSTRIAL SAFETY REVIEW | Fire Industry Magazine | Safety Magazine India | Security Magazine India | Life Safety Magazine | Occupational Health Safety Magazine. https://www.isrmag.com/understanding-managing-boiling-liquid-expanding-vapour-explosion/
[4] Hazard Identification and Control. (n.d.). In Osha.Oregon. Retrieved July 6, 2023, from https://osha.oregon.gov/edu/Documents/workshop-materials/1-120w.pdf
[5] U.S. number of explosion incidents 2012-2021. (2023, May 31). Statista. https://www.statista.com/statistics/785950/number-of-explosion-incidents-in-the-united-states/
Goldberg & Loren Personal Injury Attorneys
6500 S Macadam Ave #300,
Portland, OR 97239
(971) 339-8080
If you or a loved one were injured in a plant expulsion in a plant fire, refinery fire, or a chemical plant, we may be able to help you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries. Contact us to see if you have a case!
Have Questions About Your Case? Call Us Today:
