New York Compressed Gas Accident Attorneys

Compressed gases can be toxic, flammable, oxidizing, corrosive, inert or a combination of hazards. In addition to the chemical hazards, compressed gases may be under a great deal of pressure. The amount of energy in a compressed gas cylinder makes it a potential rocket. Appropriate care in the handling and storage of compressed gas cylinders is essential. In addition to the container and its hazardous contents, misuse and abuse can cause serious injuries or death due to high pressure.

Flexible pressurized hoses can also contribute to compressed gas accidents and injuries. Flexible hoses are generally pressurized with air but may also contain paint, hydraulic fluids, or welding gases. Injuries can occur when the hose breaks or by the hose whipping and blowing debris, dangerous gas or liquid.

Hazards associated with compressed gas include the following:

Asphyxiation: Simple asphyxiation is the primary hazard associated with inert gases. Because inert gases are colorless and odorless, they can escape into the atmosphere undetected and quickly reduce the concentration of oxygen below the level necessary to support life. The use of oxygen monitoring equipment is strongly recommended for enclosed areas where inert gases are being used.

Fire and Explosion: Fire and explosion are the primary hazards associated with flammable gases, oxygen and other oxidizing gases. Flammable gases can be ignited by static electricity or by a heat source, such as a flame or a hot object. Oxygen and other oxidizing gases do not burn, but will support combustion of organic materials. Increasing the concentration of an oxidizer accelerates the rate of combustion. Materials that are nonflammable under normal conditions may burn in an oxygen-enriched atmosphere.

Chemical Burns: Corrosive gases can chemically attack various materials, including fire-resistant clothing. Some gases are not corrosive in their pure form, but can become extremely destructive if a small amount of moisture is added. Corrosive gases can cause rapid destruction of skin and eye tissue.

Chemical Poisoning: Chemical poisoning is the primary hazard of toxic gases. Even in very small concentrations, brief exposure to these gases can result in serious poisoning injuries. Symptoms of exposure may be delayed.

High Pressure: All compressed gases are potentially hazardous because of the high pressure stored inside the cylinder. A sudden release of pressure can cause injuries by propelling a cylinder or whipping a line.

Cylinder Weight: A full size cylinder may weigh more than 130 pounds. Moving a cylinder manually may lead to back or muscle injury. Dropping or dragging a cylinder can also cause serious injury.

Even though strict regulations have been established regarding proper use, storage, transporting and handling of compresses gases, many employers continue to act in an irresponsible and negligent manner. Construction workers trust that their employers have taken the utmost care in presenting a safe and secure work environment. However, negligent companies, contractors, sub-contractors and equipment manufacturers continue to disregard the safety of their employees.

Wingate, Russotti & Shapiro is committed to upholding the rights of laborers and construction workers who, in order to support their families, have been subjected to unsafe and negligent working environments.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a NY compressed gas accident, the attorneys at Wingate, Russotti & Shapiro, L.L.P., would like to meet with you. Please call our office at 212-986-7353 to set up an appointment to discuss your case.