MADISON, Wisconsin – A former construction worker at Camp Randall Stadium reached a settlement of $22 million after sustaining severe burns in an explosion during the stadium’s south endzone renovation project in April 2022. The settlement was finalized in February, just days before the scheduled trial in Dane County.
The worker, Jeremy Rose, suffered burns over 70% of his body when an employee of the project’s general contractor ignited a propane torch while Rose was working on a mechanical room. According to his attorney, Daniel Rottier, Rose was not provided with the necessary safety precautions, such as obtaining a “hot work permit,” which ultimately led to the tragic incident.
Rottier emphasized the importance of following safety standards in the construction industry to prevent such accidents from occurring. He stated that shortcuts in safety measures can result in both human lives lost and financial costs. Meanwhile, an attorney representing J.P. Cullen & Sons, Inc., one of the contractors on the project, highlighted their commitment to prioritizing the health and safety of everyone involved in their projects.
The incident at Camp Randall Stadium serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by construction workers and the critical need for strict adherence to safety protocols. The settlement reached with Jeremy Rose underscores the legal responsibility of contractors to ensure a safe working environment for their employees. This case sheds light on the consequences of negligence in safety procedures within the construction industry, emphasizing the importance of accountability and precautionary measures to prevent future accidents.