The Columbus, Ind., plant of AK Tube LLC, an AK Steel subsidiary, has received the Safety Award of Merit from the Fabricators & Manufacturers Association, Intl. (FMA), Rockford, Ill. The award recognizes companies that provide a safe work environment for employees.

The plant's 2006 illness and injury incidence rate was 1.48, compared to the tube and pipe industry average of 8.3. Last year the plant was approved for participation as a "star" site in the Indiana Dept. of Labor's Voluntary Protection Program (VPP), which indicates employee programs that exceed OSHA requirements. The total injury rate for AK Steel was 10 times lower than the industry average, according to data compiled by The American Iron and Steel Institute.

In addition to Columbus, AK has a facility in Walbridge, Ohio. The company manufactures electric resistance welded (ERW) carbon and stainless steel tubing for various applications, including automotive and truck exhaust.