Suspected Toxic Gas Poisoning
Investigation Underway into Cause of Accident
On the 7th, the Ministry of Employment and Labor announced that it will take strict measures against Hyundai Steel's Incheon plant, where an accident suspected to be caused by toxic gas poisoning resulted in 7 casualties.
Ryu Kyung-hee, Director of the Occupational Safety and Health Headquarters at the Ministry of Employment and Labor, who visited the accident site, expressed deep condolences and regret for the deceased workers. She ordered a thorough investigation into whether the company had conducted sufficient preventive activities and complied with safety regulations, and instructed a strict investigation into possible violations of the Serious Accidents Punishment Act and the Occupational Safety and Health Act.
The previous morning, at Hyundai Steel's Incheon plant, two workers lost consciousness and collapsed while transferring waste sludge from the stainless steel plant's retention tank to the wastewater treatment facility. Other employees who entered to rescue them were also involved in the accident.
As a result of the accident, one person died, two remain unconscious, and four have mild symptoms and were discharged after hospital treatment.
The Ministry of Employment and Labor has issued a work stoppage order for the accident site and is investigating the exact cause of the accident together with the Korea Occupational Safety and Health Agency.
Furthermore, the ministry warned that accidents often occur due to relaxed vigilance ahead of holidays and urged other workplaces to remain alert and thoroughly manage safety and health.
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