Man suffers vacuum injuries, sues Gerdau Ameristeel

A Beaumont man is suing two companies for injuries he received when his arm became entangled in an industrial vacuum hose.

Sylvester Harrison filed suit against Specialized Maintenance Services and Gerdau Ameristeel US on Nov. 13 in Jefferson County District Court.

According to the lawsuit, on July 25, 2013, Harrison, a Labor Finders employee, was working at a premises controlled by Gerdau.

He and his crew were vacuuming oil and water from a reform tub cellar when his right arm and hand became entangled into the vacuum hose, subjecting his arm to negative air pressure and severe injuries, the suit claims.

The suit accuses Gerdau of negligently failing to inspect the tub and remove debris, which contributed to Harrison’s injury. The suit also says Specialized Maintenance Services controlled the vacuum truck and the vacuum hose did not have a break tee.

The plaintiff accuses both defendants of negligently failing to provide a safe place to work.

Harrison is suing for his alleged past and future medical expenses, mental anguish, pain, impairment and disfigurement.

He is represented by Tommy Yeates, attorney for the Moore Landrey law firm in Beaumont.

Judge Milton Shuffield, 136th District Court, is assigned to the case.

Case No. D194-968