Student sues University of New Brunswick for explosion damages
A student is suing the University of New Brunswick and two staff members after being injured in an explosion on campus in 2014.
According to court documents, UNB student Xichen Zhang was working on an experiment in the Limerick Pulp and Paper Centre Lab on Oct. 6, 2014 when it exploded resulting in chemical burns and schrapnel injuring his face, eyes, left arm and hand.
Zhang is suing UNB, as well as staff members Dr. Yonghao Ni, and Linqiang Zheng, for not maintaining or enforcing a safe work environment, negligence, and failing to properly supervise and inform students how to safely operate in the lab.
In the court documents filed Sept. 26, it states Zhang also suffered loss of vision in his right eye, impaired night vision and damage to his corneas. Documents state that Zhang is now unable to obtain a Chinese driving licence. In addition to pain and suffering, Zhang is also suing for the loss of leisure and recreational activities, the loss of income and earning capacity, as well as homemaking capacity and the cost of care.
UNB spokesperson Sonya Gilks said the university is unable to comment on the lawsuit due to potential litigation.
