Fireworks should always be handled with extreme caution. Given the volatile nature of fireworks and their potential to produce damaging explosions, California workers who work with fireworks are required to take the utmost care in preparing these fireworks displays to protect all individuals who will be near the fireworks when they are ignited. Unfortunately, in a recent tragic accident, a young California man suffered a fatal work injury while setting up a fireworks display, and it remains unclear what exactly caused the accident to occur.
The man was working for a fireworks company setting up the display several hours before the start of a minor league baseball game. While working with the fireworks, an explosion occurred, which set a car on fire. The man, who was in close proximity to the car, suffered fatal burns and was pronounced dead as a result of the tragedy.
Two other individuals, who were also employees of the fireworks company, were also injured in the explosion. It is unclear at this time what company the employees worked for. No statements by investigators have been released at this time, and it is unclear whether the accident is being investigated by state officials.
There are times when it is impossible for a California worker to avoid a work injury. However, despite their inability to avoid such an occurrence, workers’ compensation benefits typically apply. In this case, the worker’s family may be entitled to receive workers’ compensation death benefits that are designed to assist a family as they try and come to terms with an accident that, without warning, took the life of their loved one. These benefits normally cover funeral expenses and related costs as well as provide for the lost income of the deceased loved one. Similarly, those injured on the job are likely entitled to benefits to cover their medical costs and lost income from work as they concentrate on recovering so they can get back to work.
Source: Ballpark Digest, “Worker dies after fireworks accident at Lake Elsinore game,” Sept. 4, 2012