Workplace death first at Stelco in 18 years

Kirk Moore, a 40-year veteran, died Saturday while working in the plant’s coke oven works

Kirk Moore, popular among his colleagues at Stelco for more than 40 years, died on the job Saturday, the first fatality at the steelmaker since 2004.

Moore, who was in his 60s, died from injuries suffered in an incident working in the coke oven department.

The mood among workers Monday was “pretty dark,” said Ron Wells, president of United Steelworkers Local 1005.

A spokesperson with Ontario’s Ministry of Labour said two officials are investigating the incident, but would not comment on details.

Trevor Harris, vice-president of corporate affairs at Stelco, told the Spectator in an email: “There was a serious incident at Stelco’s Hilton Works facility involving a single employee ... all of us at Stelco are deeply saddened by the loss of our friend and colleague.”

Harris said the company is investigating “how this tragedy occurred” and “will co-operate with all authorities.”

Hamilton Police spokesperson Jackie Penman told the Spectator there is nothing suspicious about the incident.

Moore had worked in the coke ovens for at least 20 years.

On Saturday the Spectator reported that firefighters had “de-energized” equipment on site and “removed the patient from the machine,” but the worker was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics.

Wells said the last time a worker was killed on the job at Stelco was 18 years ago. Prior to that, in 2001, a 57-year old worker was killed, leading to Stelco paying a $250,000 fine for failing to better protect him.

A union letter to workers that Wells posted on Twitter called Moore’s death tragic and unthinkable, and said the best way to honour his memory is to ensure no one is killed at work again. The letter added that Moore is survived by sons Paul and Chris.

Moore’s Facebook page had not been updated in about a year, but recent postings showed him vacationing in the Caribbean, and buying a Camaro.

He had also posted a photo of himself posing in front of a mural painting of angel’s wings. Moore’s son, Paul, posted the angel picture on social media over the weekend, and wrote about losing his father:

“Crying again just seeing your photo. I’m gonna miss you so damn much ... We were always joking with each other and making each other laugh and smiling to no end. I can’t believe you’re gone. I am at a complete loss for what to do. RIP dad.”