Six Contractors Seriously Injured in Newport News Middle School Explosion

Six contractors suffered severe burns after an explosion occurred in D. Crittenden Middle School in Newport News, Virginia (VA). There were a total of eight individuals injured, but two suffered minor injuries and were released from the hospital, according to the Richmond Times-Dispatch.

No one knows how this industrial occurred, though some believe it could be attributed to the propane used by the workers to melt tar for roof work. The accident is being investigated by the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry.

Industrial accidents caused by explosions are rare, but devastating. In 2008, there were 173 fatal industrial accidents due to fire and explosion. From 1992 to 2002, there were 1,692 fatal occupational accidents in Virginia (VA), according to the Department of Labor.

Fortunately, the six contractors don't appear to have life-threatening injuries, but severe burns could forever alter their life. They may face years of recuperation, skin grafts, plastic surgery, and might not be able to reclaim their quality of life prior to the accident. I sincerely hope they make a full recovery.