Teamsters Sue Airgas Over Alleged Hazardous Gas Releases In Peoria, New Jersey

The Teamsters union has filed lawsuits against Airgas, accusing the company of deliberately releasing hazardous chemical gases on striking workers during pickets in Peoria, Illinois, and Oakland, New Jersey. The incidents, which occurred on July 8 and 10, involved dense white clouds of unidentified chemicals that reportedly caused injury, emotional distress, and required medical treatment for several Teamsters members. The union claims these actions were intentional attempts to intimidate and harm employees lawfully exercising their rights amid a nationwide strike that began in June over unfair labor practices and collective bargaining disputes. Airgas, a subsidiary of the French firm Air Liquide, has not responded publicly to the allegations. The lawsuits seek compensation for damages including medical expenses and emotional suffering, while the union emphasizes that these acts crossed moral boundaries and violated the company's duty to avoid harm to employees. The strike continues to involve multiple facilities across 11 states, highlighting ongoing tensions between the workers and Airgas management.