NJ Compressed Gas Injury Lawyers

Compressed Gas Injuries

Compressed gases are used for a variety of procedures required in engineering, laboratory, and industrial functions and are usually contained in cylinders that make functions such as propelling machinery and extracting gases in necessary amounts easy and more safe. However, when these compressed gas cylinders are mishandled or if the proper precautions are not followed, then even a routine procedure can become dangerous and even deadly. Compressed gases, therefore, are strictly regulated due to the potential hazards that misuse can cause. As a result, workers who handle, store and transport gas containers should undergo thorough training and employees should be able to trust their employers, subcontractors, and others to follow the necessary safety regulations and precautions.

As a compressed gas injury can be significantly debilitating, resulting in chemical burns, disfigurement, reproductive damage, brain damage, inhalation damage and lung and organ failure, it is important that contractors adhere to the requirements set forth by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration ("OSHA"). These requirements include determining that each compressed gas cylinder under an employer’s control is in a safe condition - to the extent that this can be determined by visual inspection. Similarly, as the quality of compressed gases can be odorless and colorless, the dangers caused by their toxic, flammable, and acidic nature may not be readily apparent to the untrained worker and the rules and regulations regarding their use, safe storage and transportation must be strictly followed.

Similarly, a sudden release of these gases can cause a cylinder to become a missile-like projectile, destroying everything in its path. It is of the utmost importance then, that caps used for valve protection should be kept on the cylinders at all times except when the cylinder is actually being used or charged. Also, cylinders should be stored in a well-ventilated area away from flames, sparks, or any source of heat or ignition. Similarly, keep cylinders away from electrical circuits and temperatures exceeding 125 degrees Fahrenheit.

If these and the other safety rules pertaining to compressed gas use and storage are not followed, and an injury occurs to you, a loved one, or a friend, there may be a legal right to seek compensation for physical injuries and suffering, lost income, and past, present and future medical expenses.

At the Blume Goldfaden Law Firm, our experienced New Jersey compressed gas injury lawyers work to defend the rights of employees and who have suffered compressed gas injuries and other work-related injuries. As our law firm has had the most personal injury million-dollar verdicts and settlements in New Jersey, we have over time developed the experience and resources necessary to provide the assistance you will require during your time of need. Contact us for a free consultation at 973-635-5400.