Baggage handler sues over alleged electric shock at Dublin Airport

A baggage handler who claimed he suffered an electric shock when he plugged his baggage truck in for charging near the runway at Dublin Airport has sued for damages.

Keith Doyle (29), who had a three-month contract driving the luggage trolley to meet incoming and outgoing planes, said he was stuck to the ground and unable to shout after an electric shock went up his arms.

He managed to remove his grip and fell back with all his muscles contracted, he said.

Mr Doyle said he initially felt lucky not to have suffered major physical injuries but later suffered panic attacks which left him with intense fear, despair and chest pains.

He travelled from Australia for the hearing of the High Court case over the incident on September 20th, 2010.

Originally from McKelvey Avenue, Finglas, he has sued the Dublin Airport Authority; Sky Handling Partner, Corballis Business Park at the airport, his employer at the time of the incident; and TCR Ireland, Corballis Business Park, Dublin Airport - the lessor of the baggage truck.

He claims he was exposed to unnecessary risk of injury or harm and was not provided with a safe place of work.

The claims are denied by all the defendants.

The case continues before Mr Justice Kevin Cross.