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Introduction
A contractor in his mid-20s has died after being struck by a falling steel beam at BlueScope Steel’s Port Kembla steelworks, prompting investigations by SafeWork NSW and a full shutdown of the surrounding worksite. The fatality occurred during reline works on the number-five blast furnace — one of the most significant industrial projects underway at the site.
Details of the Incident
The workplace accident occurred at approximately 10:30am on Monday, while the contractor was working opposite the number-five blast furnace stockhouse.
BlueScope Steel said its preliminary assessment indicates that a crane lifting a steel beam failed, causing the beam to fall and fatally strike the worker.
Emergency services arrived shortly after the incident but were unable to save the man.
A BlueScope spokesperson said:
“We are deeply saddened by this tragedy. Our immediate priority is supporting our people, the first responders and the family of those involved.”
Aftermath and Immediate Response
Operations in the immediate vicinity of the blast furnace were halted as emergency crews and BlueScope personnel worked to secure the area.
The company is cooperating fully with authorities, with workers across the reline project sent home as the site absorbs the shock of the fatality.
Australian Workers’ Union NSW secretary Tony Callinan said:
“As is always the case when there is a fatality, we need to secure the scene and allow the relevant authorities to do their appropriate investigations.”
Worker and Union Reaction
The workforce at Port Kembla has been left reeling. Australian Manufacturing Workers’ Union (AMWU) representative Gavin Bubb said colleagues were devastated.
“His colleagues have been sent home … they are all in shock. Everyone across the project is in shock.”
The contractor’s identity has not been released publicly.
Project Background
BlueScope began relining the dormant number-five blast furnace in 2024 as part of a major program to replace the ageing number-six furnace, which is nearing end of life.
The reline works — a complex process involving high-risk heavy-lift operations — were expected to continue until mid-2026. Monday’s fatality is likely to trigger extended delays as authorities investigate the cause of the crane failure.
Investigation Continues
SafeWork NSW inspectors attended the site shortly after the incident, with a full forensic examination of the crane, lifting system and work processes now underway.
A report will be prepared for the NSW Coroner.
Regulators will examine:
- whether lifting procedures were correctly followed
- the mechanical integrity of the crane and rigging systems
- supervision and safe-work method statements
- overall safety management during the blast furnace reline
BlueScope has committed to cooperating fully with investigators and providing further information once preliminary findings are available.
Conclusion
The death marks one of the most serious industrial incidents at Port Kembla in recent years, raising renewed concerns about safety risks during heavy-lift operations and large-scale industrial maintenance projects. As the investigation continues, workers, unions and the Illawarra community remain in mourning over the tragic loss of a young worker.