The cause of the blast remains under investigation. Reports indicate the workers had been carrying out routine operations at the time.
The Clairton Coke plant, which processes coal into coke, has experienced several explosions in recent decades. In 2009, a maintenance worker was killed in a blast, and the following year an explosion injured 20 workers. In February this year, two workers sustained minor injuries when a battery fault caused a build-up of combustible material that ignited.
Bernie Hall, USW District 10 Director, said in response to the accident:
“The USW has occupational health and safety experts and other representatives on the ground at the Clairton Works assessing the situation and aiding our members. While we are still determining the scope of the tragedy, we are aware that multiple workers are receiving medical treatment for their injuries. In the coming days, we will work with the appropriate authorities to ensure a thorough investigation and to see that our members get the support they need.”
Photo: Clairton plant. Credit: Joseph, Flickr