Fatal Explosion at Nation’s Largest Coke Plant
An explosion at U.S. Steel’s Clairton Coke Works in Pennsylvania on Monday morning left one person dead, several injured, and two individuals unaccounted for, according to Allegheny County officials.
The incident occurred shortly after 10 a.m. at coke oven batteries 13 and 14, part of the plant’s reversing room. Emergency responders from across the county, including police, fire, and EMS, arrived within minutes. Injured workers were transported to area hospitals, with some in critical condition.
Ongoing Emergency Response
Governor Josh Shapiro confirmed multiple explosions at the facility and said search-and-rescue operations remain active. The Allegheny County Health Department advised residents within a one-mile radius to remain indoors, close windows, and set HVAC systems to recirculate air as a precaution.
Video footage from nearby cameras showed a large plume of black smoke rising from the plant, located about 20 miles south of Pittsburgh along the Monongahela River.
Plant Background
The Clairton Coke Works is the largest coke manufacturing facility in the United States, employing nearly 1,300 workers. Coke, a key material for steelmaking, is produced by heating coal at high temperatures in ovens. The facility is part of U.S. Steel’s Mon Valley Works, which also includes the Edgar Thomson and Irvin plants.
Community and Official Reactions
- U.S. Steel Statement: CEO David B. Burritt said the company’s priority is “the safety and well-being of our employees and the environment” and pledged full cooperation with investigators.
- Local Leaders: Clairton Mayor Richard Lattanzi described the blast as “distraught” and personal, noting his own ties to the plant’s workforce.
- Residents: Nearby residents reported feeling the blast shake their homes, with some describing it as sounding like thunder.
Environmental and Safety Concerns
The plant has a history of environmental violations. In 2019, U.S. Steel agreed to an $8.5 million settlement over air quality issues, and in 2024, the company reached a $42 million settlement requiring upgrades to pollution controls.
PennEnvironment, an environmental advocacy group, has called for an independent investigation into the cause of the explosion and a review of whether the plant should continue operating.
Current Status
Authorities have not yet confirmed the cause of the explosions. The scene remains active, with safety crews working to secure the facility and locate missing workers. Air quality monitoring is ongoing, and no hazardous pollutant levels above federal standards have been detected so far.
About the Author
