Hand stuck in conveyor belt, man claims in suit against Olin

A man has filed suit against a construction company after he says his right hand got stuck in a conveyor belt.

David Phillips claims he was working for Olin Corporation on Sept. 16, 2005, when the incident occurred.

While Phillips was working for Olin Corporation, defendant RCS Construction was also performing foundation construction work on the premises and created a tripping hazard without warning of its presence, according to the complaint filed Sept. 16 in Madison County Circuit Court.

"On September 16, 2005, plaintiff David Phillips was working in Building 497 – Zone 1 at the Olin premises when he tripped on the raised area described in paragraph 5, and as a result came into contact with the roller conveyor," the suit states.

Because of his fall, Phillips suffered serious injuries to his hand, wrist and arm; experienced pain and suffering; and incurred medical costs, the complaint says. In addition, Phillips claims he suffered disability, lost his earning capacity, lost wages and benefits and lost his normal life.

Phillips is seeking a judgment of more than $50,000, plus costs and other relief the court deems just.

Ray C. Dripps of Armbruster, Dripps, Winterschleidt and Blotevogel in Alton will be representing him.

Madison County Circuit Court case number: 09-L-983.