Madison, Wisconsin – A worker who sustained severe burns in an explosion during renovation work at the University of Wisconsin’s Camp Randall Stadium has reached a $22 million settlement in his lawsuit against the project’s general contractor. The settlement was finalized just 10 days before the civil trial was set to commence last month in Dane County.
The worker, identified as Jeremy Rose, was employed by Maly Roofing, a subcontractor of JP Cullen & Sons, when the incident occurred on April 13, 2022. During the renovation work, a Cullen foreman used a flame torch to dry an area of the floor in an enclosed mechanical room beneath the stadium, triggering an explosion that caused Rose to sustain burns on over 70% of his body.
According to court documents, Rose attempted to flee the room but stumbled, inadvertently spilling primer on himself, exacerbating his injuries. Following the incident, he underwent multiple surgeries and required extensive medical treatment. His attorney, Daniel Rottier, stated that Cullen failed to adhere to industry safety standards by neglecting to obtain a “hot work” permit prior to using the open flame torch, which typically requires a supervisor inspection to identify potential hazards.
Rottier emphasized the importance of implementing safety measures in the construction industry, highlighting the significance of hot work permits in ensuring worker safety and preventing accidents like the one experienced by Rose. As part of the settlement agreement, Cullen did not admit any wrongdoing, with Co-President Jeannie Cullen Schultz reiterating the company’s commitment to prioritizing the health and safety of all individuals involved in their projects.
The resolution of the lawsuit underscores the necessity for construction companies to strictly adhere to safety protocols and procedures to prevent accidents and mitigate risks in the workplace. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers faced by workers in the construction industry and the critical importance of maintaining a safe work environment. The substantial settlement awarded to Rose reflects the severity of the injuries sustained and the long-term impacts on his physical and emotional well-being. Moving forward, it is imperative for companies to prioritize safety measures and employee well-being to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.