Bridgewater Township, NJ – A mechanic was hospitalized after a mishap at a local car dealership resulted in burns and a small fire. The incident occurred on Wednesday just before noon at the Ray Catena Infiniti Service Center located on US-22.
According to police, the employee was attempting to handle a can of brake cleaner close to a container filled with hot, used engine oil. The canister unexpectedly exploded, covering him in the scalding oil and igniting a fire.
Quick action by dealership staff using a fire extinguisher helped suppress the flames. Emergency responders arrived shortly after to provide first aid, but the mechanic had already sustained burns and required further medical attention. He was transported to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in nearby New Brunswick for treatment.
The current condition of the injured mechanic has not been disclosed yet, adding a level of concern among community members and fellow employees. Car dealerships, known for their hectic environments, often see accidents, but the flammable nature of materials like brake cleaner can lead to especially dangerous situations.
“This is a stark reminder of the hazards these workers face daily,” said a spokesperson for the local firefighters’ union. “It’s crucial that safety protocols be rigorously enforced.”
The Bridgewater Township Police are conducting an investigation to determine the specifics of the incident, including any potential oversight in safety measures that could have prevented the accident. Workplace safety officials may also conduct a separate review to ensure compliance with federal and state regulations.
The dealership has not yet released a statement regarding the incident, but an internal review is expected. Employee safety is a primary concern, and further measures may be implemented to avoid similar incidents in the future.
This event underlines the importance of safety practices in environments dealing with flammable substances and sharpens focus on the need for continual education and vigilance in the workplace to protect employees from potential dangers inherent in their duties.