Safety Update – USW Health, Safety & Environment Visit
October 02, 2026
Brothers and Sisters,
Following a serious workplace incident in which a member of USW Local 1803 suffered severe burns, the incident was reported to the United Steelworkers. As part of the union’s response, George Hall of the United Steelworkers International Health, Safety and Environment Department came to the Augusta facility.
George’s department works with USW locals and members following serious workplace incidents and provides technical support involving hazard identification, investigations, safety systems, training, and stronger protections for workers.
During his visit, George met with Local 983 President Marcus Smith, Vice President Tracy Miller, Steve Jenkins, David Smith, Michael Healan, USW District 9 Staff Representative, and company leadership.
George also met with Chris Wilson and several members of Local 1803, giving workers from both locals an opportunity to raise concerns directly and discuss conditions affecting employees throughout the facility.
The visit went beyond reviewing a single incident. Discussions focused on whether the mill’s current safety systems are effectively identifying hazards, correcting unsafe conditions, involving employees in the process, and protecting workers when they believe a task or condition is unsafe.
Several important issues were discussed, including the mill’s Stop Work process, the effectiveness of the current safety committee structure, employee participation in safety decisions, recent incidents, and how hazardous conditions are being addressed before another employee is injured.
George also identified a number of questions that he wants the company to answer. Both Local 983 and Local 1803 will be following those questions closely as we work to make sure the concerns raised during his visit result in answers and meaningful corrective action.
The United Steelworkers also has additional resources available following serious workplace injuries, including the International Health, Safety and Environment Department, District staff, and the Emergency Response Team (ERT). These resources help workers and locals examine what happened, identify failures in workplace safety systems, and work toward meaningful corrective action.
Serious incidents must result in serious corrective action.
We will continue keeping the membership informed as this process moves forward.
George Hall – USW Health, Safety & Environment
George Hall, Technician
United Steelworkers Health, Safety, and Environment Department
Office: 412-562-2528
Cell: 716-525-4883
Fax: 412-562-2584
Email: ghall@usw.org
60 Boulevard of the Allies
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
In Solidarity,
USW Local 983