Sacramento Construction Site Accident Lawyers
Compressed Gas Injury Attorneys in Northern California

Founded in 1993, Demas & Rosenthal is the law firm that believes in getting to know each and every client on a personal level to successfully represent Northern California accident and injury victims. Sacramento attorneys, John Demas and David Rosenthal, started their firm with the vision of achieving justice and obtaining maximum results for serious injury victims. With extensive experience in all types of serious personal injury and wrongful death cases, Demas & Rosenthal will not quit until your case is settled.

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 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 compressed gases, many employers continue to act in an irresponsible and negligent manner in order to speed up the job or save money. 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.

You need the representation of aggressive, experienced trial attorneys to ensure you are fairly compensated for your suffering. The Law Offices of Demas and Rosenthal are ready to take on your compressed gas accident case and will not quit until you get the settlement you deserve.