Two students injured in University of Maryland chem lab blast

Two female students of the University of Maryland are recovering from injuries -- first- and second-degree burns -- after an explosion at the schools Chemistry Building yesterday. They are reported hospitalized in good condition with burns to the fronts of their bodies.

Officials say the explosion occurred around 12:30 on the first floor of what is called Wing #3 of the school's chemistry facilities. The two victims were conducting an experiment and an unexpected chemical reaction resulted in the blast. Two other people who were in the lab at the time apparently were not hurt.

The explosion and damage is said to have been contained to just the one room of the building. The building has reopened. There's no word as to whether further inspections are planned to ensure that the structural integrity of the entire building hasn't been compromised.

Officials do say that the area underwent decontamination and hazardous materials tests were conducted. Results of the tests are still pending. Two University employees and firefighters who responded to the blaze were required to go through the decontamination process, as well.

It is a common misconception that the only claims that can be filed in connection with premises liability deal with slips and falls. That's not the case. Any injury that can be shown to be the result of improper maintenance or design can be grounds for a legitimate claim. In this case, the chemicals the students are alleged to have been using are not known to result in explosive reactions. A thorough investigation into the circumstances in this incident seems to be called for.

Source: MyFoxDC TV, "Students Injured in University of Maryland Chemical Explosion," Maureen Umeh, Sept. 26, 2011