Workplace deaths spur rally in front of National Steel Car

Residents outraged about workers dying on the job at National Steel Car are planning to rally in front of the Hamilton railcar manufacturer Thursday.

The Ministry of Labour is investigating the death of welder Quoc Le, 51, at the 600 Kenilworth Ave. N. plant Monday after a reported 2,000-pound metal bulkhead fell in the workplace. It was the third workplace death at National Steel Car in the last two years.

The United Steel Workers union has called for a criminal negligence investigation into the latest death, but Hamilton police have so far told The Spectator that officers previously determined the probe belongs with the provincial Ministry of Labour.

National Steel Car said Tuesday the company is still investigating the circumstances that resulted in a valued employee" losing his life, but emphasized it is committed to providing the safest possible workplace" for its workers.

It also called the union's allegation of potential criminal negligence irresponsible" given the provincial investigation is still underway.

Late Tuesday, an online poster advertising a 1:30 p.m. rally at the entrance of National Steel Car began circulating on social media via local unions and labour groups.

Family of Collin Grayley, a painter and father of three who died on the job in April of 2021, confirmed they were invited to attend.

The company faces charges under Ontario health and safety law related to both Grayley's death and the workplace death of Fraser Cowan, a crane operator and father of two. Both matters remain before the court.

The United Steel Workers have argued police should investigate the latest death to determine whether criminal liability can be established on the part of the corporation under Criminal Code amendments - commonly known as the Westray Law - meant to address serious workplace injuries or death.

Matthew Van Dongen is a transportation and environment reporter at for The Spectator. mvandongen@thespec.com