All shipbuilders at Newport News Shipbuilding will be part of a safety stand down Wednesday. In the military stand downs typically happen after a major mishap or when the Navy wants to focus the attention on a particular problem.
“We are dedicating intentional time to reinforce our safety standards across the shipyard. We will continue to prioritize safety above all else, and maintain our strict compliance with workplace safety requirements.” said Todd Corillo, spokesman for Huntington Ingalls Industries.
In February, the state of Virginia cited Newport News Shipbuilding for dumping thousands of gallons of jet fuel into the James River. April 29, 10 workers were evacuated from a submarine with symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning.
The stand down comes as the Navy is pressing shipbuilders to increase production. The Navy has long wanted to build two Virginia-class submarines a year, between the two main contractors Newsport News and Electric Boat. Adm. Daryl Caudle said the companies are on track to do it by 2032.
There have also been delays in producing Ford-class aircraft carriers. The Kennedy is on track to come on line next year after several years of setbacks, but the next ships in the class are also facing delays.
The Hampton Roads Workforce Council estimates the area has a shortage of 10,000 shipyard workers, which will grow to 40,000 workers by 2030. Turnover has cut the number of experienced shipbuilders, which can add to safety issues.
