Employer sued over laborer’s alleged hearing loss

GRETNA – A man is suing his employer for allegedly contributing to his hearing loss by not poprely protecting him from a loud work environment.

Martel Brigand filed suit against Hydril Company and Travelers Property and Casualty Company of America in the 24th Judicial District Court on Jan. 24.

Brigand alleges that he began working for Hydril Company at 201 Klein Street in Westwego on Oct. 17, 2011. The plaintiff contends throughout his employment he was exposed to loud noises at his job site and was never provided with safety equipment or informed by his employer that the loud noises could damage his hearing. Brigand asserts that in 2013 and 2014 he began experiencing diminished hearing and instances of total hearing loss. The plaintiff claims that after he began experiencing hearing problems he filed a workers’ compensation claim against Hydril Company that they refuted and said were not eligible for compensation.

The defendant is accused of failing to warn of high noise levels, failing to provide safety equipment, failing to provide a safe working environment, failing to provide the the plaintiff with regular medical check-ups and withholding the results of any hearing tests.

An unspecified amount in damages is sought for medical expenses, physical pain and suffering and mental anguish.

Brigand is represented by attorney Julien F. Jurgens of Metairie.

The case has been assigned to Division L Judge Donald A. Rowan Jr.

Case no. 746-134.