A Texas resident is taking legal action against a major corporation for negligence and premises liability, alleging severe injuries from chemical exposure. On April 24, 2025, Robert Wayne Guillory filed a complaint in the District Court of Harris County, Texas, against Odfjell Terminals (Houston) Inc., claiming that the company failed to provide a safe working environment.
According to the petition, Guillory was hired by SDM Construction Enterprises – The Core Group on July 13, 2023, to perform interior painting work at Odfjell's terminal facility in Seabrook, Texas. Guillory alleges that while performing his duties inside a chemical storage tank, he was only provided with a half-faced respirator mask and was not informed about the hazardous nature of the chemicals involved. "Defendant Odfjell failed to provide adequate warnings or safety instructions," states the complaint. The plaintiff further claims that no safety supervisor or representative from Odfjell disclosed the harmful properties of the paint or required appropriate personal protective equipment.
As a result of this alleged negligence, Guillory experienced a burning sensation on his skin during work and later sustained chemical burns. Despite his visible injuries and complaints, no emergency medical assistance was offered by Odfjell’s agents or employees at the site. Guillory eventually sought medical treatment independently when his condition worsened. The complaint accuses Odfjell of failing to exercise reasonable care in maintaining a safe work environment and not warning about known hazards such as toxic substances.
Guillory is seeking monetary relief exceeding $250,000 but not more than $1 million for damages including physical pain, mental anguish, disfigurement, loss of enjoyment of life, and future medical expenses. Additionally, he is pursuing exemplary damages due to what he describes as "conscious indifference" by Odfjell towards safety protocols and worker welfare.
The case highlights significant accusations against Odfjell Terminals regarding their duty of care towards contractors working on their premises. It raises questions about workplace safety standards and corporate responsibility in industries dealing with hazardous materials.
Representing Robert Wayne Guillory is attorney M. Paul Skrabanek from Pierce Skrabanek PLLC. The case has been assigned Case ID 2025-28739 and will be presided over by Judge Wanda Chambers in Harris County's 152nd Judicial District Court.