FirstLocalNews.com has learned that the annual Algoma Steel Family Day, scheduled for tomorrow has been canceled.
The announcement was made late yesterday in light of the fatality at the steel plant late Thursday morning.
Sources tell FirstLocalNews.com that the employee was a 21 year old male, believed to be from the Sudbury area.
The work died yesterday in the blast furnace area while on a lift.
Algoma Steel released a statement Friday.
Sault Police Services and the Ministry of Labour are conducting an investigation.
On the afternoon of June 15th, the worker lost consciousness while cleaning an out-of-service gas line. Algoma Steel Emergency Services personnel responded immediately with assistance from Sault Ste. Marie Fire and Paramedic Services. The worker was transported to Sault Area Hospital where they succumbed to their injuries. The Ministry of Labour has been notified and an investigation is underway.
Algoma Steel Chief Executive Officer Michael D. Garcia commented, “We extend our sincere condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues affected by this devastating loss. The safety and well-being of everyone in our workplace is a top priority and core value at Algoma Steel. We wish to express our gratitude for the prompt response and assistance provided by the emergency services personnel and the dedicated team members who were on-site during this challenging incident. They demonstrated the utmost professionalism and commitment in dealing with the situation and providing urgent medical assistance.”
Counselling services have been made available to Algoma employees and those of the contractor who may have been impacted by the event.
“In light of the fatal incident that occurred at Algoma Steel on June 15th, we have decided to postpone tomorrow’s Family Day event until further notice. ” said Brenda Stenta, Communciations officer at Algoma Steel.
“Thank you to those of you who planned to attend the festivities. We will be sure to extend another invitation when a new date has been confirmed.” Stenta continued.
“Due to the short notice, we are unable to reach all of our retirees who were invited to attend the event. Many of them are not regular users of email or social media. We are hoping you can assist us in getting the word out about the event being postponed. “
