HOUSTON — Several boilermakers who were exposed to a dangerous chemical during a pipe leak are claiming negligence.
Jose Duarte, Alexander Torres, Jose Valencia and Ivan Arroyo Galvan filed a complaint May 13 in Harris County District Court against Ascend Performance Materials Inc., alleging negligence.
The plaintiffs were working as boilermakers at Ascend Performance's Pensacola, Florida plant on April 29, 2022, according to their suit. They claim that working in the facility's nylon unit and replacing an elevated valve, a pipe that was two feet away began to leak a chemical substance which they discovered was therminol. They further allege they were exposed to the therminol for 25 to 30 minutes which caused them to suffer injuries to their nervous system, respiratory system, eyes, throats, lungs and other parts of their bodies.
The plaintiffs claim Ascend Performance's negligence for failing to properly inspect and maintain its nylon unit, failing to monitor the unit and for not properly repairing and servicing the equipment in the unit. They also claim Ascend Performance was negligent for failing to supervise and train its employees, failing to warn of the dangerous condition and violated OHSA regulations and standards.
The plaintiffs seek monetary relief of more than $1 million, interest and all other just relief. They are represented by Marcus Spagnoletti and Eric Rhine of The Spagnoletti Law Firm in Houston.
Harris County District Court case number 2022-28839