In a somber announcement today, Harmony Gold Mining Company Limited reported a tragic incident at its Kusasalethu mine, located near Carletonville in Gauteng. Two dedicated employees lost their lives in a fall of ground incident caused by a seismic event on Tuesday, September 5, 2023.
This devastating event serves as a harsh reminder of the inherent risks associated with mining operations, despite the industry’s relentless efforts to prioritize safety. The entire nation is mourning the loss of these two individuals who were simply going about their daily work in one of South Africa’s most critical sectors.
On September 5th, a seismic event shook the Kusasalethu mine, leading to a fall of ground incident. Two employees tragically lost their lives as a result of this accident. Harmony Gold Mining Company Limited expressed its deep sorrow at the loss of these valued colleagues and emphasized its unwavering commitment to improving safety practices.
Peter Steenkamp, the CEO of Harmony, stated, “We are deeply saddened by the loss of our colleagues. Harmony continues its focus on embedding its risk management practice to create a more engaged and proactive safety culture. The inclusion and involvement of all Harmony stakeholders in all aspects of safety demonstrate a unified commitment to prevent accidents through our ongoing humanistic transformation safety journey.”
The families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased have been notified, and our thoughts and prayers are with them during this period of grief.
In response to the incident, Harmony Gold Mining Company Limited has temporarily closed the affected work area at Kusasalethu mine. This closure is standard procedure following such events and is crucial to conducting a thorough internal investigation.
A safety shift has been declared for September 6, 2023, in memory of the employees who lost their lives. This shift aims to reinforce safety messages and procedures and serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of adhering to stringent safety protocols.
The safety of employees remains the top priority for Harmony Gold. The company continues to invest in measures to enhance safety within its operations. This tragic incident underscores the need for constant vigilance and the ongoing effort to minimize risks in the mining industry.
As South Africa grapples with the loss of two more lives in the mining industry, the nation is reminded of the perils that miners face daily. Harmony Gold Mining Company Limited’s commitment to improving safety practices is commendable, but this tragic incident highlights the need for continued vigilance and investment in safety measures across the mining sector.
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