July 4, 2005

Death shocks workers at steelmill

Workers at the New Zealand Steel steel mill at Glenbrook, south of Auckland, are in shock after the death of a workmate at the site this morning.

Engineering, Printing and Manufacturing Union national secretary Andrew Little said that the death of the man in an industrial accident at the site was a tragedy.

“The workers are in shock,” he said. “Some have gone home, while others are gathered at the site. Our delegates and organisers are working with them to support them in every way possible.”

Mr Little said that while the cause of the incident was not yet known, and details were not being released until the man’s family had been informed, the death highlighted the need for on-going vigilance on safety in the workplace.

“All families have a right to expect their working members to come home safely,” he said.

“Today, another family joins the all-too-long list of New Zealand families who have lost a loved one in a workplace accident. On behalf of the EPMU, I offer our deepest sympathies to this man’s family and workmates.”

Mr Little said that the union would be involved in investigating the causes of the incident.

ENDS

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