Buildings under construction are at high risk of fire, according to the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA).
Because unfinished buildings lack fire-protection systems, and construction sites have multiple sources of ignition, these areas are more likely to catch fire, which often spreads more quickly than in a finished building.
This risk puts construction workers in danger of suffering fire-related injuries that require them to recover for a lengthy period.
These injured workers should qualify for Ohio workers’ compensation benefits.
Causes of Construction Site Fires
According to NFPA data, municipal fire departments respond to nearly 8,400 construction site fires across the U.S. each year. While some fires are intentionally set, others are caused by:
- Temporary heating systems
- Electrical malfunction and shorts
- Disruption of gas lines
- Welding, cutting, and grinding tools
- Soldering work
- Storage and use of flammable liquids
- Hot work on roofs
Because construction sites lack smoke detectors, sprinklers, and firewalls, sparks from these sources can cause a fire to spread throughout a site with little-to-no warning.
Injuries Sustained by Construction Workers
Construction workers on a job site when a fire breaks out may be injured, even if they don't come in direct contact with the flames.
Common fire-related injuries include:
- Smoke and toxic gas inhalation. Smoke contains chemical irritants such as sulfur dioxide, ammonia, hydrogen chloride, and chlorine that can damage the lining of the respiratory tract. Respiratory problems following smoke inhalation could make it impossible to continue working.
- Burn injuries. When flames come in contact with skin and damage tissue and bone, these victims often suffer debilitating injuries. Recovery from severe burn injuries requires extensive treatment and lengthy rehabilitation.
- Heat injuries. The hot air produced by a fire can scorch lungs and melt clothing to skin. These injuries are frequently severe and require extensive treatment and time away from work.
If you've experienced an injury in a fire while working on a construction site, take it seriously. If you're struggling to get the compensation you deserve, contact me.
Helping Ohio Workers Get the Compensation They Deserve
You have not only been injured on the job, but now you're fighting a battle for the workers’ comp benefits you deserve.
I understand how that feels. I've helped injured and disabled workers in Ohio for over 30 years. Your health matters, and it's important to follow through with proper recovery. If you feel like you're being treated like a fraud or a cheater, call me for a personalized assessment of your claim.
I also encourage you to request a free copy of my book, The Workers’ Guide to Injury Compensation in Ohio, for helpful information.
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