On Wednesday morning there was an explosion at the U.S. Steel Clairton Coke Plant. The explosion shut down the B Battery coke ovens. Steel Market Update has remained in contact with U.S. Steel in order to get the most up-to-date information for our members and those who visit our SMU website.

The following is the latest press release we have received from Erin DiPietro, spokesperson for U.S. Steel:

“As of 3:00 p.m. this afternoon, 9 people remained hospitalized recovering from injuries that occurred during yesterday morning’s incident at the B Battery of U. S. Steel’s Clairton Plant coke making operation. U. S. Steel’s Medical Department is continuing to closely monitor the conditions of those who are still in local hospitals. Our thoughts continue to be with those who were injured yesterday as well as their family members.

U. S. Steel is continuing to investigate the cause of yesterday’s incident. We are cooperating fully with all of the agencies involved in the investigation process as well as involved contractors.

With regard to Clairton’s operational status, we are in the process of restoring the operational capability of B Battery. The battery is currently operating at a reduced rate. We anticipate that it will return to normal operating levels within one week. The rest of Clairton Plant continues to operate normally.”

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