Mpumalanga Region
11 October 2006
The light duty vehicle in which they were travelling was struck by a load
haul truck. The mine's emergency response unit was immediately send to the
accident scene to commence with rescue operations. Mr David Msiza, Principal
Inspector, was notified of the accident and he together with the DME
Inspectorate Branch team was at the accident scene conducting an inspection in
loco.
The investigation is being conducted to determine the sub-standard
acts/conditions and intermediate personal/job factors involved in this
accident. Prudently both vehicles are to be examined by an external expert to
identify any sub-standard safety features and to ascertain the operational
condition pertaining to the brakes, steering, and general state of the vehicles
mechanics. The Principal Inspector has called for the maintenance schedules,
training records of both drivers, operational procedures, applicable mine
standards, risk assessment documents.
It has been highlighted that engineering/machinery related accidents are
increasing and interventions are being implemented to address concerns. The
Honourable Minister of Mineral and Energy, Ms Buyelwa Sonjica, is most
concerned by the totally unacceptable number of miners that are dying at South
African Mines. In 2003 the mining industry through the Mine Health and Safety
Council (MHSC) and its alliance partners, which include employers, labour and
the state, set a goal of improving mine related injuries by 20 percent per
annum. It is clear from current trends that the goal set is not being achieved
and in all probability will be a further deterioration last year's poor
performance.
It is with deep regret that Ms Buyelwa Sonjica, Honourable Minister of
Minerals and Energy has received news of the tragic accident and wishes to
express her sincerest sympathy with the next of kin and loved ones of the three
deceased miners.
Enquiries:
Ms Bontle Mafuna
Tel: (012) 317 8086/8185
Fax: (012) 322 0810
Cell: 082 571 4310 / 082 773 2388
E-mail: bontle.mafuna@dme.gov.za
Issued by: Department of Minerals and Energy
11 October 2006
