PROCTOR — A Cameron man was killed on the job at the Westlake Chemical Plant in Proctor in a high-pressure water line explosion Sunday evening, according to the Marshall County Sheriff’s Office.

Steven E. Chambers, 44, was working for the Boilermakers Local Union #667 when the explosion happened. The incident occurred around 6 p.m. Sunday night, according to the sheriff’s office news release.

A witness reported that Chambers was performing maintenance on a high-pressure waterline while standing on a ladder 10 to 20 feet off the ground when the line exploded, causing him to fall, the release states.

Chambers was then transported to Wetzel County Hospital, where he was pronounced dead from his injuries due to the fall.

Boilermakers Local Union #667 released a statement Tuesday on Chambers’ death, reiterating the importance of job site safety.

“We offer our deepest sympathy and support to Brother Chambers’ family and our Local 667 brothers and sisters. We are thinking especially of his father, who is also a L-667 Boilermaker,” said International President Timothy Simmons.

“Every single person deserves to work in a safe environment where they know they can go home at the end of the day to their loved ones,” Simmons added. “Every single person deserves for their father, mother, son, daughter, husband, wife, friends, brothers and sisters to come home to them at the end of their shift.

“Each and every safety protocol matters. We know all too well that the smallest details that might seem insignificant or trivial can mean the difference between life and death. Protocols simply cannot be ignored. Ever.”

L-667 Business Manager/Secretary-Treasurer Bruce Forshee said the local has collected funds to pay tribute and will present a customized Boilermaker Bible to his family.

“Brother Chambers’ death is such a tragic, senseless and tremendous loss,” Forshee said. “Tomorrow is never guaranteed, and we are reminded: Safety must always be top priority on every job site. Lockout/tagout is not an option. It is necessary every time.

“Our hearts are especially with our brother’s father, son and girlfriend.”

Officials at Westlake could not be reached for comment as of Tuesday evening.