Gipson alleges that Bethlehem cut back on its safety program as the company has downsized. A 15-percent reduction in the salaried workforce that began in 1999 is nearly complete. Some safety-team members who retired haven't been replaced, Gipson says. Beginning in 1993, the company and union have cooperated in a program involving 200 union safety-team members throughout the plant. But Gipson doesn't attribute the accident directly to such cutbacks.
Safety is a core value, and it is never compromised.
Bethlehem Burns Harbor's lost-time accidents, OSHA recordable accidents, and total injuries have been cut in half the last five years. Last year was the safest year in the plant's 36-year history, Bethlehem says. OSHA, the company, and union are investigating the accident. Gipson expects a detailed report. There's always room for improvement.