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Worker Seriously Hurt as Transformers Spark

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<i> Associated Press</i>

Three 11,000-volt power transformers atop a downtown skyscraper traded sparks Friday, seriously injuring a utility company worker and igniting a fire that forced office workers onto the streets, officials said.

The injured Duquesne Light Co. worker, David Barnett, 56, suffered second- and third-degree burns to his face, head, chest, right arm and back. His life is not threatened, a hospital spokeswoman said.

A second utility worker and two firefighters were slightly injured in the accident at One Oliver Plaza.

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Firefighters had to wait for two hours on the 36th floor of the 38-story building while utility company workers shut off power to the transformers.

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