Consumers need to understand the causes and consequences of pressure cooker explosions to prevent such accidents from occurring.
This article will explore the risks of pressure cooker explosions, including the potential causes of these accidents and the consequences for those affected.
Understanding Pressure Cookers
The function of pressure cookers is to confine steam within the container, leading to the build-up of pressure and an increase in the boiling point of water. This enables food to cook at higher temperatures and faster than usual.
While pressure cookers can be a convenient and efficient way to cook meals, they can also be dangerous if not used properly. Pressure cooker explosions can cause serious injuries and property damage, and you need to understand the potential causes and consequences of these accidents.
According to GlobeNewswire, the market for pressure cookers was valued at USD 4.47 billion in 2020 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.2% from USD 4.57 billion in 2021 to USD 7.44 billion by 2028. The growth of the market can be attributed to increasing consumer interest in learning new recipes and the availability of instruments for their ease of use.
However, the steady growth may be hindered by the rising number of cooker explosion incidents during the forecast period.
Causes of Explosions
Pressure cooker explosions can occur when the pressure inside the pot becomes too high and the safety mechanisms fail. This can be caused by overfilling the pot, not releasing pressure properly, using damaged or worn-out parts, or using the wrong type of lid.
According to TorHoerman Law, design defects in pressure cookers can result in the risk of explosion, causing severe injuries to people around them. These defects can be found in various brands and types of pressure cookers, including electric and stovetop models.
Consequences of Pressure Cooker Explosions
Lawsuit Information Center notes that burns are the most frequent type of injury that occurs due to malfunctioning pressure cookers. Typically, the contents of the pressure cooker are heated to or above the boiling temperature, and when the boiling liquid comes into contact with the skin, it can cause 2nd or 3rd-degree burns.
In pressure cooker cases, burn injuries can be particularly catastrophic, as they frequently occur on the face and cause permanent scarring. Victims of pressure cooker explosions may require extensive medical treatment, including hospitalization, surgery, and skin grafts.
The physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burden resulting from these accidents can be devastating for victims and their families. Furthermore, the manufacturer or distributor of the pressure cooker may be liable for the damages caused by the explosion, leading to potential legal battles and compensation claims.
A Look at Legal Options
If you or someone you know has been injured due to a pressure cooker explosion, it's essential to understand your legal options for compensation. You have an option of filing a pressure cooker lawsuit under which the manufacturer may be held responsible for negligence or product liability if they failed to provide adequate warnings, instructions, or safety mechanisms.
If the pressure cooker was defective, such as having a faulty valve or lid, the manufacturer may be held strictly liable for any injuries or damages caused by the defect.
An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and determine the best course of action for seeking compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages resulting from the explosion.
Recalls and Safety Measures
In recent years, there have been several instances of pressure cooker recalls due to safety concerns. According to AboutLawsuits.com, Sunbeam recalled almost 1 million Crock-Pot units in November 2020, due to design defects. Sunbeam acknowledged that the lid had accidentally detached while the food was under intense pressure in at least 119 incidents. It resulted in a minimum of 99 reports of pressure cooker injuries.
With the introduction of more electric pressure cookers, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has asked for several recalls over issues where lids could be opened while contents were under pressure, causing scald or burn injuries to individuals nearby.
You also need to check for any recalls or safety notices for your pressure cooker and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Some safety measures include using a pressure cooker with a pressure release valve, not overfilling the pot, and inspecting the cooker for damage before each use.
In addition to following safety measures, you need to be aware of the signs of a potential pressure cooker explosion, such as hissing sounds, steam coming out from the sides, or the pressure valve popping up during cooking. If you notice any of these signs, turning off the heat source and releasing the pressure immediately is essential.
Conclusion
Pressure cooker explosions can have serious consequences, including burns and other injuries. It is essential to understand the causes of these explosions and take necessary safety measures to prevent them. Checking for recalls, following manufacturer instructions, and inspecting the cooker before each use are some safety measures to consider.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pressure cooker explosion, seeking medical attention and consulting with a personal injury lawyer can help determine legal options for compensation. Understanding the risks of pressure cookers and taking proper precautions can help ensure safe and enjoyable cooking experiences.
