05/15/2026
PUBLIC SAFETY NOTICE - DANGEROUS SAFETY CONCERN
Recently, an extremely dangerous arc flash incident occurred at West Ridge Mall that could have very easily resulted in a fatality. While smoke filled the mall, tenants were reportedly told it was simply a “panel fire” and that everything was under control. The reality is that this worker should have never been placed in such an unsafe situation.
An electrical worker with less than one year of field experience was instructed to use a metal tool (fish tape) in an energized 1200-amp switchgear without the proper safety equipment being provided by their contractor. The metal tool made contact across live voltage, causing serious burns to the worker. This is unacceptable.
Our mission is to improve the lives of all electrical workers, not just those who work under our agreements. When we secure better wages, benefits and working conditions, standards improve across the industry. When safe working conditions are enforced, all electrical workers benefit and have a better chance of returning home safely to their families after every shift.
One of our organizers attempted to contact the injured worker through a single Facebook message in an effort to help raise funds for medical expenses. After the contractor became aware of this, their employees were allegedly told that the union was “harassing” the injured worker. This could not be further from the truth. We can only hope those employees see through the BS. We have always stood for the safety and well-being of all electrical workers, regardless of where they work. There is no reason to distort the truth unless there is something to hide.
We have already had one employee from this contractor leave this week over safety concerns and join our organization. That individual has since been placed with a contractor that prioritizes safety. We have more positions with our contractors available.
If you are an electrical worker who feels unsafe, underappreciated, or pressured to work in dangerous conditions, contact us at any time. Your call can remain completely anonymous if you choose.
“Safety first” is not just a slogan to us. It is a responsibility.
