A contractor has died in a workplace accident at the Port Kembla steelworks in New South Wales. The man, in his mid-20s, was fatally struck by a falling steel beam while working on the reline of the number five blast furnace.
The incident occurred at approximately 10:30am on Monday. BlueScope Steel's preliminary assessment indicates that a crane lifting a steel beam fell, causing the beam to strike the worker. Emergency services attended the scene and are assisting with the investigation.
BlueScope Steel expressed deep sadness over the tragedy, stating that their immediate priority is supporting employees, first responders, and the worker's family. SafeWork NSW inspectors have arrived at the site, and a report will be prepared for the coroner.
Work in the immediate area ceased following the incident. Australian Workers' Union NSW branch secretary Tony Callinan emphasized the need to secure the scene for investigations. Gavin Bubb from the Australian Manufacturing Workers' Union noted that colleagues are in shock and have been sent home, with the project largely halted.
The reline of the number five blast furnace began in 2024 to replace the number six blast furnace, which is nearing the end of its operational life. The project is expected to be completed by mid-2025.
