In the United States, an explosion occurred at U.S. Steel's Clairton Coke Works on August 11, 2025, resulting in the deaths of two workers and injuries to 11 others. This incident took place at the largest industrial facility of its kind in the Western Hemisphere, located outside Pittsburgh. The Chemical Safety Board is investigating the explosion, which involved the release of coke oven gas that ignited. Workers were attempting to open and close a gas isolation valve while pumping water, an action not mentioned in U.S. Steel's written procedures. The tragedy follows a series of accidents at the facility, raising serious questions regarding safety management practices at the plant. Many workers allege that poor management and underinvestment led to operational problems, specifically citing difficulty in replacing coke oven doors that have demonstrated a history of leakage and emissions. The plant has faced extensive criticism for its contribution to air pollution locally, with past incidents including a 2009 explosion that claimed a maintenance worker's life and another in 2010 that injured numerous employees and contractors. U.S. Steel's failure to address these issues adequately has drawn attention from environmental groups and the Allegheny County Health Department, which reported the plant as a major local source of air pollution. In light of these developments, U.S. Steel claims to have invested significantly in environmental compliance and safety protocols, though former workers remain critical of the company's commitment to enhance operations. Furthermore, Neppon Steel's acquisition of U.S. Steel for $15 billion raises questions about the future investment and maintenance of the Clairton Coke Works as the company emphasized its importance for steelmaking operations. Amidst ongoing investigations, the clarity of U.S. Steel's operations and environmental progress remains a significant point of discussion.