POSCO CEO Lee Hee-geun Vows Thorough Reflection After Series of Safety Incidents

(Seoul=Yonhap Infomax) Jae Heon Lee – POSCO CEO Lee Hee-geun has issued a statement of deep reflection and pledged comprehensive measures to prevent recurrence following a series of safety incidents, including a recent gas inhalation accident involving cleaning workers at the Pohang Steelworks.

In an official apology released on the 21st, Lee stated, "As CEO, I feel a heavy sense of responsibility for the repeated safety accidents that have occurred this year, which have caused concern to many. We will conduct a thorough review and implement fundamental measures to ensure such incidents do not happen again, mobilizing all company resources."

He added, "Once again, I sincerely apologize to the victims and their families. We will fulfill our responsibilities and obligations in handling the aftermath of the accident, and will do our utmost to create a safer workplace going forward."

The previous day, a gas leak occurred at the STS 4 steelmaking plant at POSCO's Pohang Steelworks, resulting in three workers who were cleaning equipment collapsing and being transported to the hospital. Two workers have regained spontaneous circulation (ROSC) but remain in critical condition, while one is experiencing impaired consciousness.

POSCO immediately activated an accident response team and is cooperating with authorities to determine the exact cause of the incident. The company has pledged to provide all necessary support and measures to aid the recovery of the affected workers.

Earlier, on the 5th of this month, a separate incident at Pohang Steelworks resulted in the death of a subcontractor employee due to exposure to hazardous substances.

jhlee2@yna.co.kr

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