Worker Injured In AkzoNobel Plant Fire Files Lawsuit, Claiming Company Didn't Provide Safe Working Environment

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- We're getting a clearer picture now of the injuries suffered by a plant worker after a massive fire at AkzoNobel last week. That man is recovering from burns and on Wednesday we heard from his attorney.

The contractor burned during last week's explosion and fire has filed a lawsuit against the company.

Eyewitness News was first on the scene of that intense fire at the AkzoNobel plant. Toyo Gonzalez was hurt and spent two days in the hospital.

We got the first images of his injuries Wednesday. Gonzalez suffered chemical burns on his face. His attorney told us his eyesight was saved by the safety goggles he wore.

"He suffered significant burns to his face. They were chemical burns and what he was doing that day were chemicals that exploded in his face, he was treated at Hermann Memorial and he's at home recovering," said attorney Jason Gibson.

The lawsuit contents AkzoNobel didn't provide a safe working environment, and that the equipment was old.

Gonzalez is recuperating at home. His family is uncertain whether he'll go back to work.