MADISON — A lawsuit has been filed by Delta Air Lines employees against Lands' End Outfitters after they say newly-issued uniforms caused a variety of health issues for those who had to wear them.
The class action lawsuit filed in the Western District of Wisconsin Court said that several Delta employees suffered multiple health complications caused by their required uniforms manufactured by Lands' End. Some of the complications included severe respiratory illnesses, rashes, boils, hives, blisters, sinus problems, headaches and fatigue. The plaintiffs worked in a variety of capacities at Delta, including flight attendants, ramp and gate agents, Sky Club workers and more.
The uniforms produced by Lands' End are high stretch, wrinkle and stain-resistant, waterproof, anti-static and deodorizing. The plaintiffs claim that chemical additives and finishes are used to achieve those characteristics, which can cause allergic and sensitizing effects on the body. The lawsuit says employees developed symptoms after the rollout of the uniforms, and they have continued since.
Seven causes of action were brought in the lawsuit, including negligence, strict design defect, manufacturing defect, failure to warn, breach of express warranty, breach of implied warranty and violation of the Magnuson Moss Warranty Act. Damages for personal injuries, pain and suffering, severe emotional distress and financial or economic loss. The plaintiffs also want Lands' End to recall the uniforms.
Lands' End was contracted to provide new employee uniforms for Delta Air Lines in 2016. The uniforms included several garments, including dresses, skirts, shirts, blouses, sweaters, jackets and pants. The uniforms launched on May 29, 2018 and are worn by approximately 64,000 Delta employees.
"Our top priority continues to be continues to be the safety of our employees, which is why we invested in a rigorous toxicology study to determine if there was a universal scientific issue with the uniform," said Delta Air Lines in a statement. "The results of the study confirm our uniforms meet the highest textile standards (OEKO-TEX) with the exception of the optional flight attendant apron, which we removed from the collection."
Lands' End said they wouldn't comment on pending litigation.
Read the entire lawsuit below:
Delta Uniforms Lawsuit by TODAY'S TMJ4 on Scribd
