Steelworkers Protest Outside Old Moon Area High School

Several employees who are on strike at Rankin-based W&K Steel held a brief demonstration Friday afternoon outside the old Moon Area High School building.

The steelworkers said they object to Reginella Construction's use of W&K fabricated steel products in the renovation of the former high school. Reginella is the primary contractor on the project to convert the former high school into the district's new middle school. Construction is taking place at the site. 

The steelworkers, who said they planned only a one-day demonstration, sat near the Beaver Grade Road entrance to the building with a sign that read, "A sweatshop is fabricating steel for this project." 

"We've attempted to meet with Reginella but they haven't responded to us," said Tim Hand, who said poor working conditions at W&K prompted him to go on strike more than a year ago. "We're just out here trying to inform the public." 

Hand said that the brief protest had "nothing to do with the school district." 

Reginella did not respond to a request for comment. 

Earlier this year, W&K Steel, which remains open, was found to be in violation of Allegheny County's anti-sweatshop ordinance following an investigation. It also received multiple citations for violations of regulations by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.