Employee alleges head injuries when pressurized hydraulic fluid exploded

A Madison County man and his wife are suing his former employer for occupational injuries he allegedly sustained when pressurized hydraulic fluid exploded at Olin Corp. in 2013.

Mark and Sandra Avant filed their lawsuit on March 30 in Madison County Circuit Court against Kane Mechanical Inc. of East Alton, alleging negligence.

According to the complaint, Mark Avant was injured while on the premises of the defendant’s property at the Olin Corp., located at 600 Powder Mill Road in East Alton, on or about Sept. 24, 2013. The suit states that a pipe fitting and bushing for an extrusion press was handled improperly, causing hydraulic fluid under pressure to erupt and explode, allegedly striking Avant and knocking him off his feet.

He claims to have suffered painful injuries to his head and body, including a concussion, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression and emotional distress. The plaintiff asserts he required excessive medical treatment and hospital costs totaling about $125,000, and expects to incur future similar expenses, as a result of his injuries.

Claiming loss of income and diminished work capacity for Mark along with loss of society, support and the burden of excessive medical costs on Susan’s part, the Avants are seeking damages in excess of $50,000, plus attorneys’ fees and costs.

The plaintiffs are represented in the case by Craig Schlapprizzi of Donald Schlapprizzi PC, St. Louis.

Madison County Circuit Court case number 15-L-416