The firework or pyrotechnic industry can be a very risky line of work for anyone regardless of how long the employer has been around or how well trained a worker is. For one California man, doing his job has led to devastating injuries. The injured worker was igniting fireworks at an Ojai California show over the holiday when something went terribly wrong.
Witnesses describe a blast that was too close to the ground as the first sign that something went wrong. An ambulance was called and those in attendance were told that there had been an injury. The injured worker, a 32-year-old man, was transported to a hospital then to a burn unit where he was listed in critical condition.
The man reportedly suffered burns to various parts of his body. There is an investigation into the accident being conducted by Cal-OSHA. The company that handled the fireworks display has been in business for 120 years.
While the investigation into what exactly went wrong may take a while, the injured worker may have a long road ahead of him when it comes to his recovery from this work place accident. In California, there are strict standards, training requirements and regulations when it comes to pyrotechnic displays such as town sponsored holiday firework displays. The man who was injured doing his job is entitled to certain benefits and financial compensation that all may be necessary to help him recuperate from his injuries or also to help him care for his family while he is out of work.
Source: dailynews.com, “Worker burned in Ojai fireworks mishap,” Barbara Jones, July 5, 2013