Steelworks Blast Survivor Wins Six-Figure Compensation

A steelworker who miraculously survived the explosion of a steel blast furnace has won a six-figure sum in compensation.

 

Peter Clement, 54, worked for Corus at their Port Talbot steelworks. In 2001 he was only ten metres away from a furnace that exploded. The force of the blast lifted Mr Clement off the ground and threw him into the air.  

 

Mr Clement initially picked himself up off the ground and walked away, not realising the extent of his injuries. In hospital it was discovered that he had suffered 45 per cent burns and had a broken shoulder and ribs. He had also inhaled toxic fumes. He had to have nerves transposed surgically and dead bones removed. He also suffered renal failure, liver problems, septicaemia and, at one point, total organ failure. Doctors said it was a miracle that he had survived the explosion.

 

It was found that a build up of water leaking into the furnace had caused the accident. Corus admitted liability for failing to ensure the safety of their employees but it is only recently that compensation negotiations have been concluded.

 

Whilst the six-figure payout provides some comfort, Mr Clement still has to deal with the psychological after-effects of the blast along with the physical scars and continuing pain.

 

Twelve people were injured in the accident and three men were killed. Compensation in four other cases currently in progress could be as much as £1m.