Lime Plant Worker Suffers Serious Chemical Burns in Explosion at Lhoist North America in Alabama

A lime plant worker was seriously injured with chemical burns in an industrial accident at Lhoist Alabaster Lime Plant on Wednesday, May 9, 2018. The accident occurred around 6:30 p.m. at the facility on First Avenue West in Alabaster, Alabama.

Officials told AL.com that one worker was badly burned in the explosion and was airlifted to the University of Alabama at Birmingham Hospital, which has a Trauma Burn Intensive Care Unit. Doctors there provide critical care for burn patients.

Firefighters told the Alabaster Reporter that a worker was lighting a furnace when the explosion occurred. No more details are available, and officials are investigating.

The plant supplies lime, limestone, and clay products to facilities that produce iron, steel, chemicals, glass, agriculture pulp, and paper. Explosions can occur when lime is mixed with water, or when lime dust reaches a combustible concentration and a spark ignites a blast.

Chemical Burns Caused by Lime Are Devastating

Lime can be dangerous because it coagulates the proteins in the skin. This can destroy the skin. This type of explosion can also burn the eyes, mouth, esophagus, and lungs.  Lime is a base, or alkaline compound, which can cause more damage than acids, because they can liquefy the skin.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) produces Hazard Communication Guidance for facilities where combustible dust is an issue. These finely divided solids are volatile. One spark can trigger a conflagration. Facilities with that level of danger are required to tell workers about the OSHA requirements. They are also required to specifically train the workers in methods used to detect the presence of a hazardous chemical, physical and health hazards, and control measures. Employers must provide in-depth training when workers handle these chemicals.

The injuries caused by chemical burns are devastating. We extend our sympathies to the injured party and their family.

Over the years, attorneys Fred Pritzker and Eric Hageman have successfully represented many clients who have been injured in chemical burn accidents. We have won multimillion dollar judgments for our clients. Call 1-888-377-8900 to discuss your case with our attorneys. The call is free and confidential, with no obligation.

Sources

Robinson, Carol. “Worker severely injured in explosion at Alabaster lime plant.” AL.com, May 9, 2018.

Kortright, Amalia. “One injured in Alabaster lime plant explosion.” Alabaster Reporter, May 10, 2018.

OSHA. “Hazard Communication for Combustible Dusts.” U.S. Department of Labor, 2009.