Three Collapse at POSCO Pohang Steelworks Due to Suspected Gas Poisoning
An alarming incident unfolded at POSCO's Pohang Steelworks in North Gyeongsang Province on Thursday, where three individuals, including both contracted staff and a company employee, suddenly fainted due to suspected toxic gas inhalation. The accident, which occurred around 1:30 p.m. while the team was engaged in sludge removal, has prompted serious concerns regarding industrial safety protocols at the facility.
Urgent Response and Critical Conditions
Emergency services swiftly responded to the scene, transporting all three affected individuals to local hospitals for urgent medical attention. Disturbingly, two of the victims were found to be in cardiac arrest, underscoring the severity of their exposure. Firefighting authorities have indicated carbon monoxide poisoning as the probable cause, a highly dangerous and often invisible threat in industrial environments.
Recurring Safety Concerns
This latest incident casts a shadow over the steelworks, coming just two weeks after another critical accident. In that prior event, one worker tragically lost their life, and three others sustained severe burns after being exposed to hazardous chemical substances stemming from damaged pipes. The recurring nature of such serious workplace incidents within a short timeframe at the Pohang Steelworks will undoubtedly lead to intensified scrutiny of POSCO's safety management systems and operational procedures. Authorities are expected to launch a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding this gas inhalation event to prevent future occurrences and ensure worker well-being.