Downcomers I

In making this photograph, I was drawn to the abstract geometric lines and shapes of the pipes, the stairs, and the downcomer itself.

The audio segment describes how the men who worked here were payed not only hourly wages, but also incentive pay to generate more tonnage. The immensity of the work often resulted in the loss of several pounds of body weight per shift. Weight was kept stable with regular meals and the use of salt tablets.