Evraz North America plans to temporarily lay off approximately 250 workers from its Regina mill in Western Canada; the steel mill produces slabs and plate, and has an energy tubular segment that manufactures oil and gas well casing and tubing, small diameter line pipe and large diameter line pipe. In particular, a demand and order slowdown in the large diameter pipe sector drove the decision for a temporary layoff. Layoff notices were issued in September and the initial round of began October 20, with about 250 workers expected to lose their jobs in mid-November.
Local news outlets that spoke with Evraz representatives also explained that because Evraz Regina is a project mill, workers are continuously hired and let go depending upon order entry rates. Depending on demand levels, more workers could be laid off; likewise, if a pickup in activity does materialize the notices can be rescinded, or fewer people may be let go.