ALBANY — CSEA is rallying around Albany Department of General Services (DGS) worker Anthony Hughes and his family as he faces a long recovery after suffering severe burns in an Aug. 4 workplace explosion.
Hughes, 47, has worked for the city since 2006, rising from a laborer working on the back of a trash truck to an operator and, eventually, a supervisor. He currently supervises the department’s 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. shift.
Hughes suffered second and third degree burns over about 30% of his body, including his face, arms and legs, according to CSEA Albany DGS Unit President Jeff Hunt.
He was initially treated at Albany Medical Center before being transferred to the burn unit at Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse, where he remains in critical but stable condition.
Doctors have told the family that a full recovery could take a year or longer.
“It’s going to be a battle for him,” said Hunt. “It’s not so much just the body itself, but his mind. It’s very traumatic to go through something like that.”
Hunt was at the scene following the explosion and immediately went to Hughes, staying with him until emergency responders arrived.
“When I came outside and I saw Anthony on the ground, I immediately went to him, laid on the ground with him and tried to talk to him,” said Hunt. “I was amazed at how calm Anthony was.”
Hunt said his response wasn’t about training.
“Humanity kicked in,” said Hunt. “You see somebody in trouble and in distress. I didn’t even think twice. I just had to make sure Anthony was OK.”
Helping during time of need
CSEA Capital Region President Shana Davis said our union has been supporting Hughes and his family while also participating in the investigation into the explosion. CSEA Occupational Safety and Health staff are involved in the process, and union representatives have met with city officials.
“Our role is to try to figure out what happened,” said Davis. “It really is important that we as a union work together with all the powers that are in play to make sure that we get the answers we need, make sure that all workers are safe and that nothing like this ever happens to another worker.”
Davis and Hunt stressed that the investigation remains ongoing and urged people not to speculate about the cause. Hughes was on the clock and performing his regular work duties when the incident occurred.
Meanwhile, CSEA members, locals and units have stepped up to help Hughes, his wife and their three children. Our union has helped the family with temporary housing near the Syracuse hospital and is working to support fundraising efforts and other needs during Hughes’ recovery.
Davis and Hunt also expressed support for the Albany Fire Department battalion chief who was also seriously injured in the explosion and his family.
“The only silver lining you could see is if both men come out of this and can lead healthy, happy lives,” said Hunt.
For now, Hunt said the focus remains on his friend and co-worker.
“It’s going to be a long road,” said Hunt. “Just continue with the prayers and support — and please respect their privacy.”