A fatal accident has occurred at Harmony Gold Mining Company's Mponeng mine near Carletonville in South Africa, resulting in the death of an electrician who was conducting routine maintenance work on October 26.
"Harmony extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of the deceased and is providing support during this difficult time," it said in a statement.
The company confirmed that a full investigation into the circumstances of the incident has been initiated, led by Harmony management in collaboration with the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources.
"Harmony remains committed to its proactive safety strategy and continues to reinforce a culture of care across all operations," the gold miner said.
The Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (AMCU) responded to the incident by revealing that this marks the 38th mining-related fatality in South Africa this year, with 12 of those fatalities having occurred at Harmony Gold operations.
"We call on Harmony Gold to take immediate and concrete steps to address safety shortcomings and to engage meaningfully with unions and workers to prevent further loss of life,” said AMCU president Joseph Mathunjwa.
“Mining should not be a death sentence. Every worker deserves to return home safely at the end of their shift. We will continue to demand accountability until every employer values human life above profit."
Mathew Nyaungwa, Editor-In-Chief, Rough&Polished
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