A worker who was burned in an explosion during renovation work at the University of Wisconsin’s Camp Randall Stadium has settled his lawsuit against the project’s general contractor, JP Cullen & Sons, for $22 million. The worker, Jeremy Rose, was employed by Maly Roofing, a subcontractor of JP Cullen & Sons, when the incident occurred on April 13, 2022. Rose suffered burns over 70% of his body as a result of the explosion, which was caused when a Cullen foreman used a flame torch to dry an area of the floor in an enclosed mechanical room beneath the stadium.
According to court documents, the explosion occurred while Rose and another worker were applying a flammable material to the floor. Rose attempted to run from the room but stumbled, spilling primer on himself and causing the burns. He has since undergone surgeries and received extensive medical care. Rose’s attorney, Daniel Rottier, stated that Cullen failed to follow industry safety standards by not requiring a “hot work” permit before using the open flame torch. This permit, which requires an inspection by a supervisor to check for hazards, has been recommended by the construction industry and insurance companies for over 50 years to increase worker safety.
The settlement was reached just 10 days before the civil trial was scheduled to begin, and Cullen did not admit any wrongdoing as part of the agreement. Co-President Jeannie Cullen Schultz stated that the company’s top priority is the health and safety of everyone involved in their projects. The $22 million settlement will provide compensation for Rose’s injuries and medical expenses resulting from the explosion. Rottier emphasized the importance of following safety protocols to protect workers, highlighting the human and financial costs of taking shortcuts in safety measures.
The incident at Camp Randall Stadium serves as a reminder of the importance of strict adherence to safety procedures in construction projects. The use of “hot work” permits, as recommended by industry standards, can help prevent accidents like the one that resulted in Jeremy Rose’s injuries. The significant settlement reached in this case is a reflection of the serious consequences that can occur when safety protocols are not followed. The settlement provides justice for Rose and compensation for the medical care he required as a result of the explosion.
Moving forward, it is crucial for construction companies to prioritize the safety of their workers and ensure that proper safety measures are in place on all projects. By following industry standards and implementing protocols such as “hot work” permits, companies can minimize the risks of accidents and injuries on job sites. The settlement in Jeremy Rose’s case should serve as a cautionary tale for companies in the construction industry, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a safe work environment for all employees. Ultimately, the well-being of workers should be the top priority for all construction companies to prevent tragedies like the one that occurred at Camp Randall Stadium.
