Columbia, South Carolina, August 29, 2025
News Summary
Three former workers at Trane’s Columbia facility have filed a lawsuit against Flow International Corp. related to a Legionnaires’ disease outbreak linked to water jet cutters. The outbreak resulted in 34 infections, 15 hospitalizations, and two fatalities. The lawsuit highlights significant health impacts on the workers and challenges imposed by South Carolina’s employee lawsuit regulations.
Columbia, South Carolina – Three factory workers from Trane’s Columbia facility have filed a lawsuit against equipment manufacturer Flow International Corp. in connection with a Legionnaires’ disease outbreak linked to water jet cutters used in the factory. The suit was initiated by former employee Jahmil Pugh on August 22, 2023, in the Richland County Court of Common Pleas. Pugh, along with two other workers expected to file separate lawsuits, cites significant health issues resulting from the outbreak.
The Legionnaires’ disease outbreak at the Trane factory in 2022 impacted a total of 34 workers, leading to 15 hospitalizations and tragically, two fatalities. The lawsuit targets Flow International Corp. as well as RMI LLC, which was retained for cleaning, and Chem-Aqua Inc., responsible for disinfection efforts.
Due to existing South Carolina legislation that places restrictions on employee lawsuits against employers for negligence, the affected workers have chosen not to sue Trane directly. Instead, they have the option to pursue workers’ compensation benefits, which often provide limited financial recovery.
Details of the Legionnaires’ Disease Outbreak
The Legionnaires’ disease outbreak investigation began in September 2022, following the hospitalization of three workers who subsequently tested positive for the disease. This illness is caused by the Legionella bacteria, usually found in water systems, particularly cooling towers and similar venues. Health officials discovered the presence of this bacteria in two water jet cutting machines at the Trane factory, which are suspected of aerosolizing these harmful particles.
Environmental testing revealed that the water jet cutters, along with two floor scrubbers utilized in the factory, contained the Legionella bacteria. The machines employed recirculated water, creating a breeding ground for bacterial growth, thereby increasing the risk of transmission to nearby workers.
Health Impacts on the Workers
Pugh, who worked near the water jet cutters, faced severe health complications, including an altered mental state, fever, and kidney damage, resulting in an 11-day hospitalization. As of now, he continues to experience chronic fatigue, cognitive difficulties, and kidney issues that necessitate ongoing medical care.
Allegations Against Equipment Manufacturers
The lawsuit outlines several allegations against the defendants. Flow International Corp. is claimed to have failed to implement adequate measures to contain aerosolized droplets that could have prevented the bacteria’s spread. RMI LLC is accused of negligence for permitting bacterial biofilm build-up during cleaning operations, while Chem-Aqua is alleged to have inadequately disinfected the affected areas, as evidence of Legionella remained even after their treatment protocols.
Response from Defendants
There has been no response from the companies named in the lawsuits regarding the allegations made by the workers. The lack of comment from Flow International Corp., RMI LLC, and Chem-Aqua Inc. comes amidst an environment of growing concern over workplace safety and health protections in manufacturing settings in South Carolina.
Conclusion
This lawsuit and the health consequences faced by the affected workers highlight serious issues regarding workplace safety and the responsibilities of equipment manufacturers and cleaning contractors in managing health risks associated with hazardous bacteria. As litigation unfolds, further details regarding these allegations and their implications for factory safety standards may emerge.
FAQ
What is Legionnaires’ disease?
Legionnaires’ disease is a severe form of pneumonia caused by the Legionella bacteria, which thrives in water systems. It can be contracted by inhaling aerosolized water containing the bacteria.
Why are the workers suing Flow International Corp.?
The workers claim that Flow International did not take sufficient measures to prevent the spread of Legionella from their water jet cutters, which allegedly aerosolized the bacteria.
How many workers were affected by the outbreak at the Trane factory?
A total of 34 workers were affected, with 15 requiring hospitalization and two fatalities resulting from the outbreak.
What are the implications of the South Carolina law regarding employee lawsuits?
South Carolina laws limit employees’ ability to sue employers for negligence. Workers must typically rely on workers’ compensation, which provides limited recourse for workplace injuries.
What health issues has Jahmil Pugh faced since the outbreak?
Jahmil Pugh suffered severe health complications resulting in hospitalization and continues to experience chronic fatigue, cognitive impairment, and ongoing kidney issues following the outbreak.
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HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Columbia Factory Workers Legionnaires’ Disease Lawsuit
- Wikipedia: Legionnaires’ disease
- Columbia Gorge News: NYC Legionnaires Outbreak – 6 Deaths
- Google Search: Legionnaires disease
- CNN: Legionnaires Disease Outbreak in NYC
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Legionnaires’ disease
- People: 1 Dead, 22 Sickened by Legionnaires’ Disease Cluster in NYC
- Google News: Legionnaires disease outbreak
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