EDWARDSVILLE — A fuel company worker alleges his exposure to benzene and other toxic chemicals caused him to develop cancer.
Howard Smith and Lyn Vigna-Smith filed a complaint Sept. 27 in the Madison County Circuit Court against Piasa Motor Fuels LLC, formerly known as Piasa Auto Supply Service, and others, alleging negligence.
According to the plaintiffs' complaint, Howard Smith drove "various vehicles" owned by the defendants hauling petroleum products including gasoline, jet fuel, diesel fuel, home heating oils and other products. Smith claims the vehicles spread road oil and asphalt, which exposed him to benzene and other toxic chemicals and caused him to develop Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma.
The plaintiffs claim the defendants failed to warn Smith of the danger of working around the toxic chemicals and failed to provide him with safety equipment such as gloves, protective suits and breathing equipment. They allege the defendants were also negligent for failing to monitor, test levels or reduce benzene emissions in its production, storage, production and transportation of the chemicals.
The plaintiffs seek monetary relief and all other just relief. They are represented by Christopher Dysart of The Dysart Law Firm PC in Chesterfield, Mo.
Madison County Circuit Court case number 21-L-001161