Construction sites are some of the most dangerous workplaces in New York. Among the most catastrophic hazards are fires and explosions, which can occur without warning and leave workers facing severe burns, lifelong injuries, or permanent disability. When these accidents happen, New York law provides strong protections—often stronger than people realize.
If you were injured in a construction site fire or explosion anywhere in the Hudson Valley, including Kingston, Poughkeepsie, Newburgh, Middletown, or surrounding communities, the attorneys at O’Connor & Partners can help you pursue full compensation.
Common Causes of Fires and Explosions on New York Construction Sites
Construction projects expose workers to multiple fire and explosion risks. The most common include:
1. Flammable Liquids and Gases
- Propane tanks
- Fuel containers
- Solvents, adhesives, and chemicals
2. Electrical Hazards
- Exposed wiring
- Overloaded circuits
- Faulty equipment
- Poorly maintained generators
3. Welding and Hot Work Accidents
- Sparks igniting nearby materials
- Inadequate fire guards
- Poor ventilation
4. Gas Line Ruptures
- Excavation mistakes
- Lack of utility marking
- Poor site planning
5. Mechanical Failures
- Exploding boilers
- Tool or equipment defects
6. Violations of Safety Codes
- Ignoring fire safety plans
- Missing extinguishers
- Smoking near flammables
Your Rights Under New York Labor Laws
New York provides some of the strongest worker protections in the nation, especially for construction workers injured in fires and explosions.
Labor Law § 240 (The Scaffold Law)
If a fire or explosion involves:
- scaffolding
- ladders
- elevated platforms
- falling objects
…you may be able to pursue a third-party injury claim in addition to workers’ compensation.
Labor Law § 241(6)
This law requires construction sites to follow specific safety standards in the New York Industrial Code, including:
- Proper fire protection
- Controlled use of flammable materials
- Safe handling of welding operations
- Clearly marked and accessible exits
A violation often means the property owner or general contractor can be held strictly liable.
Labor Law § 200
Covers general site safety and holds contractors responsible for dangerous conditions they knew or should have known about.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Construction Site Fire or Explosion?
These accidents often involve multiple responsible parties, such as:
- General contractors
- Property owners
- Subcontractors
- Equipment manufacturers
- Utility companies
- Third-party operators
Identifying every responsible party is critical for securing the maximum compensation allowed under New York law.
Types of Injuries Common in Fire and Explosion Accidents
Victims may suffer:
- Severe burns (1st, 2nd, or 3rd degree)
- Permanent scarring and disfigurement
- Smoke inhalation
- Nerve damage
- Traumatic brain injuries (from blast waves)
- Broken bones
- Vision or hearing loss
- Emotional trauma and PTSD
Many of these injuries result in long-term disability, making a strong legal strategy essential.
Compensation Available to You
In a construction site explosion or fire case, you may recover damages such as:
Workers’ Compensation Benefits
- Medical care
- Weekly wage benefits
- Disability payments
Third-Party Injury Claims (Often Much Larger)
- Pain and suffering
- Full lost wages and future earning capacity
- Medical bills not covered by workers’ comp
- Lifetime care needs
- Scarring and disfigurement damages
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Explosions and fires frequently support high-value claims because of the extensive and permanent injuries involved.
What to Do After a Construction Site Fire or Explosion
If possible:
- Seek emergency medical care immediately
- Report the accident to your employer
- Take photos or videos of the scene (if safe)
- Get witness names
- Do not give statements to insurance companies before speaking to a lawyer
- Contact a construction accident attorney
Why Injured Construction Workers Choose O’Connor & Partners
O’Connor & Partners has decades of experience representing injured workers in the Hudson Valley. Their team:
- Handles major fire and explosion cases
- Knows NY Labor Law inside and out
- Maximizes third-party claims for maximum compensation
- Has recovered millions for construction accident victims
- Charges no fee unless they win your case
Whether your accident happened in Kingston, Poughkeepsie, Newburgh, Middletown, Monticello, or elsewhere in the Hudson Valley, the firm is prepared to fight for you.
Get a Free Consultation Today
If you suffered injuries in a construction site fire or explosion anywhere in New York, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. O’Connor & Partners can investigate, identify every liable party, and pursue the full compensation you deserve.
Call today for a free and confidential consultation.