[03-31-2025] Humboldt County, CA – Worker Sustains Burns and Injuries Following Fireball Eruption at Scotia Biomass Power Plant

A worker sustained burns and injuries from a fall after being engulfed in flames when a “fireball” erupted inside the Scotia biomass power plant in Humboldt County on Monday morning, March 31, 2025.

According to local reports, the incident occurred around 9:40 a.m. at the power plant, which generates electricity and steam from wood byproducts.

Rio Dell Fire Chief Shane Wilson stated that the employee was attempting to unclog equipment connected to a boiler when built-up pressure blew back, causing the explosion.

The worker reportedly suffered first- and second-degree burns over 10% of his body and sustained additional injuries after jumping from a 10-foot catwalk to escape the flames.

The injured worker was transported to the hospital for treatment.

Humboldt County Supervisor Rex Bohn, who represents Scotia, is awaiting further details from the power plant.

An investigation into the cause of the incident is ongoing.

Contact Our Experienced Workers’ Compensation Lawyers In Humboldt County

Workplace accidents can lead to serious physical, emotional, and financial hardships. If you or a loved one has been injured on the job, it’s crucial to seek legal support to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. We are here to help you through this difficult time.

Our skilled workers’ compensation attorneys in Humboldt County are ready to assist you with your insurance claim or represent you in court if needed. Arash Law has recovered over $750 million for clients and is known as one of California’s most trusted personal injury law firms.

To speak with one of our attorneys, call (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have a Case?” form today.

What To Do After A Workplace Accident In Humboldt County, CA

If you’ve been injured in a workplace accident in Humboldt County, you are entitled to compensation under California’s workers’ compensation law, regardless of who was at fault. In the event of a wrongful death, surviving family members may also be eligible for additional compensation.

To safeguard your health and protect your legal rights, take the following steps immediately after a workplace accident:

1. Report The Incident To The Employer — Notify your employer or supervisor immediately. This will ensure the incident is documented, and appropriate measures can be taken.
2. Seek Medical Attention — Regardless of the severity of your injuries, it’s important to seek medical evaluation promptly. Some injuries may not be apparent right away but could worsen over time. Medical records will also serve as valuable evidence in your claim.
3. Document The Scene — If possible, take photos or videos of the accident scene, including any equipment, conditions, or other factors that contributed to the incident. This evidence can be crucial in supporting your claim.
4. Gather Witness Information — Obtain contact details and statements from any witnesses to the incident. Their testimonies can strengthen your case.
5. File A Workers’ Compensation Claim — In California, most workers are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits after a workplace injury. Report the incident to your employer and file a claim as soon as possible.
6. Keep Detailed Records — Keep a record of all medical treatments, expenses, and any impact the injury has had on your daily life. This documentation will be important in building your case.
7. Consult With An Experienced Workers’ Compensation Lawyer — Call our skilled workers’s compensation lawyers to discuss your case and explore your legal options. An attorney can help you navigate the workers’ compensation process and pursue additional compensation if third-party liability is involved.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

Workplace Accident Statistics

The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported 5,486 fatal work injuries in the US in 2022, a 5.7% increase from 5,190 in 2021. The BLS stated that in 2022, a worker died every 96 minutes from a work-related injury, compared to every 101 minutes in 2021.

Transportation incidents remained the most frequent type of fatal event, accounting for 37.7% of all occupational fatalities. There were 2,066 fatal injuries from transportation incidents in 2022, a 4.2% increase from 1,982 in 2021.

Additionally, work-related fatalities due to falls, slips, and trips increased by 1.8% in 2022, resulting in 865 fatalities, up from 850 in 2021. Most fatalities in this category (80.9%) were due to falls to lower levels, which accounted for 700 fatalities in 2022, a 2.9% increase from 680 fatalities in 2021.

Navigating the process of recovering the financial compensation an accident victim is entitled to can be challenging. To have the best chance of recovering financially, individuals should ensure they are working with experienced Humboldt County workplace injury lawyers.