fatalities
2 February 2007
The Department of Labour and the South African Police Service have launched
urgent investigations into the deaths of two workers resulting from two
separate workplace accidents in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal yesterday
(Thursday, 1 February 2007).
A female employee was killed instantly when she was hit in the chest by a
forklift at a farm warehouse. The tragedy occurred at around 15h30 while the
deceased, Ms Mantombi Ngcobo and fellow employees were busy packaging harvest
at the Tala Farm. According to reports, the driver claimed to have lost control
as a result of brake failure, while witnesses accuse him of negligence.
In the second fatality, a contract municipal worker was electrocuted whilst
working atop a light pole in Hilton. Mr Moloko Ntini Ndimande, an employee of
contractor Ukukhanya Services, died on the spot when the accident occurred at
about 12h30.
His employers have told labour inspectors at the scene that the power in the
section where Ndimande was working at that point in time, appeared not to have
been disconnected as was supposed to have been the case.
The Labour Ministry has vowed to take the most drastic action possible
against anyone, should investigation findings indicate negligence or
non-compliance with any of the Occupational Health and Safety laws.
Enquiries:
Zolisa Sigabi
Cell: 082 906 3878
Issued by: Department of Labour
2 February 2007
