2 more COVID-19 cases confirmed at Dofasco in recent weeks

Two more employees at ArcelorMittal Dofasco have tested positive for COVID-19 in recent weeks, bringing the total number of confirmed cases among people working at the Hamilton steelmaker to four.

The first case was reported on March 29, with a third-party contractor working on site also testing positive and notifying the company the next day.

The most recent cases involved an employee in manufacturing services administration whose case was confirmed on April 11 and a "Finished Product Shipping" employee who the company says came into contact with a positive case outside of work and reported having COVID-19 on April 17.

"Each of these cases is in different geographical areas of the company," said spokesperson Marie Verdun in an email to CBC. 

"A thorough disinfecting has been done on each area and Public Health guidelines have been followed to identify close contacts who then self-isolate and monitor for symptoms," she added. "There have been no further cases connected to these."

Union not aware of any cases at Stelco

USW Local 1005 president Gary Howe, who represents workers at Stelco, said he isn't aware of any cases of COVID-19 among his members.

"We've been lucky," he said, adding that doesn't mean someone won't test positive in the future.

Workers have been trying to maintain physical distance and have been directed by the union to wipe down surfaces, avoid touching their faces and to stay home if sick.

Early on in the pandemic the company suggested subjecting all staff to temperature checks, but Howe said it now appears that won't happen.

Tuesday marks the National Day of Mourning, which recognizes those killed on the job.

This year, Howe said he's thinking about the dangers his members face, including COVID-19.

The union's website called for people to participate in a moment of silence at 11 a.m. and recognize the essential workers helping get people through the pandemic.