Man sues IVS Hydro, Spir Star for work-related injury

CHARLESTON -- A man is suing IVS Hydro and Spir Star after he was injured at work.

On May 12, 2009, John Michael Perkins was performing work for his employer, IVS Hydro, at an industrial facility located near Nitro when a high pressure hose and fitting failed during use and caused water less than 40,000 pounds of pressure to strike his right arm, according to a complaint filed May 20 in Kanawha Circuit Court.

The high pressure hose and fitting was manufactured by Spir Star, according to the suit.

Perkins claims IVS had prior knowledge of the existence of the specific unsafe working conditions and of the high degree of risk and strong probability of serious injury or death.

The high pressure hose and fitting was defective and not reasonably safe for its intended use, according to the suit.

Perkins claims he sustained pain and suffering; loss of enjoyment of life; emotional distress, including post traumatic stress disorder; permanent scars and disfigurement; medical expenses; loss of earnings or wages and diminished earning capacity; and aggravation, annoyance and inconvenience.

Perkins is seeking compensatory damages. He is being represented by Harvey D. Peyton.

The case has been assigned to Circuit Judge Charles King.

Kanawha Circuit Court case number: 10-C-911