Contractor Dies at Samsung's Taylor Chip Plant

Authorities investigating incident at $17 billion semiconductor factory construction site

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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A third-party contractor working on the construction of Samsung Electronics' new chip factory in Taylor, Texas died on Wednesday morning. Authorities have opened an investigation into the incident, and Samsung said it and other companies on-site are cooperating with local officials and regulators.

Why it matters

The death of a worker at Samsung's high-profile $17 billion semiconductor plant construction site raises concerns about workplace safety and oversight at major industrial projects. The incident could also potentially impact the timeline for the plant's planned production launch by the end of 2026.

The details

According to Samsung, the worker who died was a contractor with two South Korean companies, OneClass ENG and Shinsung E&G Co. Ltd. Emergency responders arrived at the scene shortly after the incident, but Samsung declined to provide additional details. The Taylor Police Department and Taylor Fire Department did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

  • The incident occurred on Wednesday morning, February 12, 2026.

The players

Samsung Electronics

A major South Korean multinational electronics company that announced plans in 2021 to build a $17 billion semiconductor factory in Taylor, Texas.

OneClass ENG

A South Korean engineering firm focused on cleanroom construction that employed the contractor who died at the Samsung plant.

Shinsung E&G Co. Ltd.

A South Korean company that provides renewable energy and equipment installation services and also employed the contractor who died at the Samsung plant.

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What they’re saying

“Safety is our highest priority, and we are committed to understanding the circumstances surrounding the incident. Out of respect for the family and the integrity of the investigation, we are not able to share additional details at this time. We will continue to provide support to our employees and the broader workplace community. We extend our deepest condolences to all who are grieving this loss.”

— Michelle Glaze, Samsung Spokesperson (statesman.com)

What’s next

Authorities are continuing their investigation into the incident to determine the cause of the contractor's death.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the importance of rigorous workplace safety protocols and oversight, especially at large-scale industrial construction projects. Samsung and its subcontractors will likely face heightened scrutiny to ensure the Taylor plant site is safe for all workers.