Labor Ministry and Police Raid Zinc Plant Over 'Worker Suffocation Deaths'

Investigation into Possible Violations of the Serious Accidents Punishment Act

The Pohang Employment and Labor Office and the North Gyeongsang Provincial Police Agency announced on October 31 that they are conducting a search and seizure at a zinc manufacturing plant in Gyeongju, North Gyeongsang Province, in connection with a worker suffocation accident that occurred in the plant's reservoir on October 25, resulting in four casualties.

This search and seizure took place six days after the accident. Approximately 40 labor inspectors and police officers dispatched to the site have secured computers, mobile phones, and other devices belonging to those involved. They plan to examine whether the employer’s safety and health regulations for preventing suffocation accidents were properly implemented.

An official from the Pohang office stated, "We recognize the gravity of this incident, in which multiple casualties occurred," adding, "Based on the evidence obtained through this search and seizure, we will clearly identify the cause of the hazardous gas inflow and determine responsibility." The official also said, "We will conduct a thorough investigation into any violations of the Occupational Safety and Health Act and the Serious Accidents Punishment Act."

The accident occurred when workers who were carrying out piping work in a tank at the zinc manufacturing plant were exposed to carbon monoxide, resulting in casualties. Three workers died, and one was seriously injured.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.