GAFFNEY, S.C. - Alcoa's Home Exteriors facility in Gaffney, S.C. is receiving two safety honors this month for excelling in workplace safety and health during 2003. On March 3, the plant was recognized for its outstanding safety performance in 2003 by the South Carolina Manufacturers Alliance in Columbia. On March 18 in Columbia, the facility will receive the 2003 "South Carolina Safety Certificate" from the South Carolina Occupational Safety Council.

Both awards honor the Gaffney plant for having a Total Recordable Incidence Rate that is at least 50% below the state average incidence rate for companies in the same Standard Industrial Classification.

"Full credit for these honors goes to our employees," said Plant Manager Chris Ruff. "They are truly dedicated to working safely, and watching out for each other on the job."

Alcoa Home Exteriors makes vinyl building products for homes such as shutters, door accents and vents. The plant has been a part of the Gaffney community since 1969 and employs 240 people.

About Alcoa

Alcoa is the world's leading producer of primary aluminum, fabricated aluminum and alumina, and is active in all major aspects of the industry. Alcoa serves the aerospace, automotive, packaging, building and construction, commercial transportation and industrial markets, bringing design, engineering, production and other capabilities of Alcoa's businesses as a single solution to customers. In addition to aluminum products and components, Alcoa also markets consumer brands including Reynolds Wrap(R) aluminum foil, Alcoa(R) wheels, and Baco(R) household wraps. Among its other businesses are vinyl siding, closures, precision castings, and electrical distribution systems for cars and trucks. The company has 120,000 employees in 41 countries.

Alcoa Inc.

Alcoa Inc.

Alcoa (NYSE:AA) is the world's leading producer and manager of primary aluminum, fabricated aluminum and alumina facilities, and is active in all major aspects of the industry. Alcoa serves the aerospace, automotive, packaging, building and construction, commercial transportation and industrial markets, bringing design, engineering, production and other capabilities of Alcoa's businesses to customers. In addition to aluminum products and components, Alcoa also markets consumer brands including Reynolds Wrap® foils and plastic wraps, Alcoa® wheels, and Baco® household wraps. Among its other businesses are closures, fastening systems, precision castings, and electrical distribution systems for cars and trucks. The company has 129,000 employees in 44 countries and has been named one of the top most sustainable corporations in the world at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. More information can be found at www.alcoa.com

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