Industrial job sites are inherently dangerous, but some hazards carry far greater potential for life-altering injury than others. Burns, explosions, and arc flash incidents are among the most devastating events that can occur in Washington's industrial workplaces. These catastrophic injuries often lead to lasting harm and complex legal disputes. At Bishop Legal, we help injured workers understand their rights and pursue the compensation they’re entitled to.

The Hidden Dangers Behind Industrial Disasters

Burns and explosions in industrial settings are often the result of preventable safety failures. Electrical burns can occur when a worker comes into contact with exposed wiring or experiences an arc flash event, an intense burst of heat and light that can reach temperatures over 35,000°F. These incidents are not only dangerous but frequently fatal.

Explosions may be caused by combustible dust, leaking gas lines, improperly stored chemicals, or faulty equipment. Fires can ignite in seconds when employers fail to follow OSHA's "hot work" protocols, such as welding near flammable materials without adequate fire protection measures. Employers or contractors often ignore known risks, neglect equipment maintenance, or fail to train employees on emergency procedures.

These aren't just workplace accidents; they result from safety breakdowns that put lives at risk.

Employer Responsibilities in Washington State

Washington law requires employers to maintain a hazard-free workplace, including safe electrical procedures, proper PPE, and training for high-risk tasks. Employers can be held accountable through third-party liability claims when they fail in these obligations. While Washington's workers' compensation system may cover medical treatment and some lost wages, it does not allow injured workers to sue their employer directly in most cases. However, a separate personal injury claim may be possible if another company, such as an equipment manufacturer, contractor, or property owner, played a role in causing the injury.

How Bishop Legal Builds Strong Industrial Injury Cases

Industrial accident claims involving burns and explosions are complex. They often require detailed investigations, expert analysis, and in-depth state and federal safety regulations knowledge. At Bishop Legal, our legal team works with engineers, electricians, safety experts, and medical professionals to determine exactly what went wrong and who is responsible.

We review safety logs, maintenance records, and OSHA investigations. We work with experts and witnesses to uncover how the incident happened and how it could have been prevented, strengthening our clients’ case for full recovery.

Whether it's an arc flash injury caused by unmarked electrical panels, a chemical explosion due to faulty valve maintenance, or a flash fire from poor hot work practices, we know how to hold negligent parties accountable.

Burn Injuries Deserve Serious Legal Attention

Severe burns can lead to lasting pain, surgeries, scarring, emotional trauma, and lost income, affecting both the victim and their family. If you’ve been injured in an industrial fire, explosion, or electrical accident, Bishop Legal is here to help you understand your rights and fight for the recovery you deserve.