"I've worked in a Pennsylvania steel mill for over 40 years. In the 50s and 60s the work was extremely hazardous to one's health due to the toxic fumes cooked off various processes that were done..
In the 70s OSHA brought clean air - water standards to bear and the extra costs to the steel mill industry was much higher. Some plants were moved out of the country.
During the cooking of coal to make coke, many extremely toxic chemicals were cooked off. I worked beside many men who are now dead. From their 30s to their 60s men I worked with have developed illnesses from their work in the steel mill, chemical build up, as best as I can determine.
By going to a salaried job, I was removed somewhat from the regular mill work. Some areas anyone had to wear a respirator. Although I didn't work in that area much any more, I had to shave my beard so the respirator would fit snugger... and be a good example for the workers"
Shared 6-30-02