49-year-old Marek Oleszczuk was pinned between two large vehicles
A worker at ArcelorMittal Dofasco died after being pinned between two large vehicles at the company’s plant in Hamilton, Ontario.
The incident, which occurred on September 20, 2024, is now under investigation by Ontario's Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development (MLITSD). “It was reported a worker was pinned between two vehicles, resulting in fatal injuries,” confirms a Ministry spokesperson in a statement to Canadian Occupational Safety.
Two inspectors were dispatched to the site, issuing a requirement to the steelmaker as part of the ongoing probe.
The deceased worker was identified in the Hamilton Spectator as 49-year-old Marek Oleszczuk. His daughter, Victoria Oleszczuk, posted a heartfelt message on Facebook announcing the passing of her father “with a heavy and broken heart.”
She asked people to share the unfortunate news and thanked friends, family, and neighbours “that have reached out with your kind words and prayers.”
A bouquet of flowers was placed near the scene, where two massive Paling transporter trucks remained cordoned off with caution tape over the weekend. Oleszczuk’s family chose to publicly share his name, urging others to remember it as a reminder to “work safely.” The ministry extended its "deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the worker."
The Ministry has withheld additional details while the investigation continues, leaving many questions unanswered regarding how Oleszczuk was fatally pinned. A spokesperson for Dofasco acknowledged the devastating loss, but also stated the company cannot release further information at this time.
Safety at steel plants has been a major focus for authorities, with heavy equipment posing significant risks if not managed properly. Transporters like the ones involved in this incident are used to move massive steel coils around the plant, emphasizing the potential dangers workers face daily.
As the Ministry’s investigation progresses, it will likely seek to determine whether any safety protocols were breached and what improvements can be made to prevent future tragedies.
