A Security guard and father-of-three has settled his case in the High Court against a meat processing plant in Co Meath after claiming that he was exposed to ammonia fumes while working.
The High Court heard how the man (51) has not worked since his alleged exposure to the fumes seven years ago, who claimed that he had no knowledge of ammonia and that he had not received instructions on the chemical from his employer.
“Overwhelmed and dizzy”
The complainant recalled the specific incident on September 23rd, 2015, where he became “overwhelmed and dizzy” as he took readings in the factory compressor room of the meat processing plant. He then stumbled out of the room gasping for air with burning eyes, a sore throat, and a severe pain in his head.
It was then that he allegedly sought the assistance of a maintenance man, but was forced to pull his car over to vomit and proceeded to fall and injure his wrist. Although he said that he gradually continued to feel worse, he carried on with his work.
“Grossly inadequate” training
Counsel for the complainant told the court that his client suffered severe injuries and remains out of work, alleging that the training for toxic chemicals was “grossly inadequate”. He further said that an investigation in to the incident reported that the gas detection system in the compressor room was “faulty and old and was not fit for purpose”.
In the High Court proceedings, it was claimed that there was as an alleged failure to provide a safe place of work for the complainant at the plant, and that there was also an alleged failure to provide him with adequate training or instruction.
These claims were denied by the plant. Additionally, it alleged that there was contributory negligence on the part of the complainant because he had returned to the compressor room after reporting the incident.
On Wedesnday, counsel for the defence noted that the case had been resolved and could be struck out with the loss of earnings calculated up until March of 2016.
*In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement.*
