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Indiana Company Fined For Safety Violations That Led To Injuries

December 5, 2012

This past Wednesday, the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC) announced that it would fine Vectren, Inc., $100,000 for safety violations that resulted in a natural gas explosion last year that seriously injured six people. According to the Claims Journal, the explosion occurred at the company’s New Albany facility at around 4:00 p.m. on November 8, 2011.

The investigation shows that a crew from Miller Pipeline, contracted by Vectren to drill on the property, accidentally ruptured a main gas line while working. Those workers failed to inform anyone of the line breakage. When the gas built up, it was ignited by a spark and the blast occurred. The impact of the explosion was so severe, it damaged a nearby home that had five residents inside. All were transported to a local hospital for treatment.

Officials fined the company a total of $25,000 a piece for four safety violations that led to the accident. Those violations included:

  • Failing to follow proper boring protocol
  • Failing to notify emergency personnel of a safety hazard
  • Not properly investigating a suspected gas leak
  • Not engaging in assisting with first responder activities as required by policy

The Workers’ Compensation Lawyers with Fleschner, Stark, Tanoos & Newlin believe employees have a fundamental right to a safe work environment. That is why the firm’s team of Indiana Disability Lawyers is here to answer any questions if you have been hurt on the job.

Reach out to a Terre Haute Personal Injury Attorney Today

The financial burden that often comes with a serious injury can be too much for many people to bear. Unexpected medical debt, damaged personal property, and the sudden loss of income can impact the budgets of most families. The good news is that a successful injury claim could help reduce that financial strain after a serious accident. Get in touch with a Terre Haute personal injury lawyer with Fleschner, Stark, Tanoos & Newlin to learn more.

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