Louisiana Court Rejects Univar’s Attempts to Dismiss Fraud Claim from Benzene, Toluene Exposure Suit

NEW ORLEANS –– A Louisiana federal court has denied a motion to dismiss brought by Univar USA Inc. in a chemical exposure case, ruling that the plaintiffs’ complaint properly alleged the elements of fraud with specificity.

In the July 17 order, the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana specifically noted the plaintiffs’ allegations that the defendant was aware of the dangers related to the hazardous chemicals, yet still failed to provide the proper safety warnings.

The plaintiffs asserted the claims on behalf of Walter Sarrat, whose employment by Gencote Inc. as a polyurethane applicator required him to …