A gas leak at the Pohang steelworks plant in South Korea sent at least nine workers to hospitals Thursday, with three initially found in cardiac arrest, renewing scrutiny of safety practices at the facility operated by POSCO, one of the world’s largest steel producers [[2]].The incident, the third at the plant this year, raises concerns about the potential risks faced by both direct employees and subcontractors [[1]]. Authorities are investigating the cause of the leak and the extent of potential operational disruptions at the crucial industrial complex.
POHANG, SOUTH KOREA — At least three workers were in cardiac arrest and six were hospitalized following a gas leak at the Pohang steelworks plant in South Korea on Thursday, according to multiple reports. The incident marks the latest in a series of safety concerns at the facility, raising questions about working conditions and outsourcing practices.
Emergency responders were dispatched to the plant after reports of workers collapsing. Three workers were initially found unconscious and in cardiac arrest, while three others were transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. Authorities have not yet identified the specific gas involved in the leak, but are investigating the cause.
According to early reports, the affected workers were involved in cleaning operations at the time of the incident. Two of the hospitalized workers are reportedly subcontractors. The repeated safety incidents at the Pohang steelworks are prompting scrutiny of the plant’s safety protocols and the reliance on outside contractors for potentially hazardous work.
This is the third incident at the Pohang steelworks this year, fueling concerns about the “externalization of risk,” as described by Yonhap News Agency. The latest accident underscores the potential dangers faced by workers, particularly those employed by subcontracting companies.
The incident comes as the steel plant continues to recover from previous setbacks. The Pohang steelworks is a major industrial complex and a key component of South Korea’s economy. The repeated safety failures could have significant economic and industrial repercussions.
Further details are emerging as the investigation continues. Authorities have not released a timeline for when the plant will resume normal operations.
