Investigators are exploring the cause of a chemical explosion at Perma-Fix Enviornmental Services, a Valdosta chemical disposal facility, which left three employees injured Wednesday, August 14, 2013.
According to emergency officials, the chemical fire broke out just before 2:30pm Wednesday afternoon, forcing a one mile evacuation around the plant.
Two employees, Charlie Curry and Stan Williams, were airlifted to a major trauma center for severe burns suffered during the blast. A third employee, Jamey Mitchell, was treated for injuries at an area hospital and has since been released.
Investigators are now examining the cause of the horrific explosion and believe the blast may have been caused by a chemical reaction. ATF and EPA officials have noted that foul play has not yet been ruled out.
Investigators have also not released reports on whether the chemical recycling plant was employing proper safety guidelines prior to the blast. Perma Fix has responded, "We have a culture of safe, compliant operations. We take this matter very seriously and are sending in corporate resources from other facilities and departments to assist in recovery, investigation and cleanup of the site."
While taking responsibility for the safety of their plant is commendable, it is important that an unbiased third party also conducts an investigation into this incident to protect the best interests of the victims, the safety of the community and to prevent future accidents.
As Mr. Curry, Mr. Williams and Mr. Mitchell were working at the time of the accident, they are almost certainly entitled to workers' compensation benefits as per Georgia Workers' Compensation Law. Further claims may also be filed should an equipment malfunction have contributed to this incident, or should a third party error have contributed to the chemical reaction, which lead to the explosion. Additionally, should foul play be involved, additional criminal claims will also be filed. Given the complexity of this case and the gravity of the injuries, it is crucial that all three victims retain a law firm experienced in both workers' compensation and personal injury as soon as practicable to ensure that their best interests are protected.
Total financial recovery may be in the millions of dollars. Unfortunately, all too often insurance companies and unscrupulous third parties are more concerned with limiting their own financial exposure than providing victims and families what they rightfully deserve. Photographs and an inspection of the plant and equipment will need to be retained immediately before any remaining evidence is destroyed. The Murray Law Firm has extensive experience in protecting victims and families of catastrophic work accidents, such as this, and we offer our legal expertise, if needed.
The Murray Law Firm will continue to follow this incident closely. Anyone with information to share or anyone seeking further information is encouraged to contact us at 229.389.4900 or toll free at 888.842.1616.