MADISON, Wisconsin – A worker who suffered severe burns in an explosion at the University of Wisconsin’s Camp Randall Stadium has reached a settlement in his lawsuit against the project’s general contractor. The lawsuit, filed by Jeremy Rose against JP Cullen & Sons, was settled for $22 million just before the civil trial was set to begin in Dane County.
Rose, an employee of Maly Roofing, a subcontractor of JP Cullen & Sons, was injured on April 13, 2022, during renovation work at the stadium. The explosion occurred when a Cullen foreman used a flame torch to dry an area of the floor in an enclosed mechanical room. Rose and another Maly worker were applying a flammable material at the time.
The blast resulted in Rose sustaining burns over 70% of his body as he tried to flee the room but accidentally spilled primer on himself. Following the incident, Rose had to undergo multiple surgeries and extensive medical treatment.
According to court documents, the lawsuit alleged that Cullen failed to adhere to industry safety standards by not obtaining a “hot work” permit before using the open flame torch. The permit typically involves an inspection for potential hazards by a supervisor.
In light of the settlement, Cullen did not admit to any wrongdoing. However, Cullen Co-President Jeannie Cullen Schultz emphasized the company’s commitment to prioritizing the health and safety of all individuals involved in their projects.
Attorney Daniel Rottier, representing Rose, highlighted the significance of following safety protocols in the construction industry to protect workers. Rottier emphasized the importance of obtaining hot work permits, as recommended by the construction sector and insurance companies for over 50 years.
The resolution of the lawsuit underscores the ongoing efforts within the construction industry to uphold safety standards and prevent workplace accidents like the one that resulted in Rose’s injuries. The incident serves as a reminder of the critical need for strict adherence to safety procedures to safeguard the well-being of workers.