By: Natasha Archary
Impala Platinum Holdings Limited (Implats) has confirmed 11 miners have died, and 75 others have been hospitalised in an elevator accident at Impala Platinum, Rustenburg.
On Monday, 27 November at 16h54, when shaft personnel conveyance was hoisting employees to the surface at the end of their shift, the conveyance of the elevator unexpectedly started descending rapidly.
The elevator’s swift descent was stopped by the conveyance counterweight becoming trapped by the jack catches.
Unfortunately, 11 people succumbed to injuries, while a further 75 employees were injured and transferred to hospitals for treatment, with others admitted.
Implats says all 86 miners who were affected by the devastating accident have been accounted for.
In a statement, Implats CEO, Nico Muller said operations at Impala Platinum have been suspended, and that the company is in the process of informing all families that were affected.
“This is the darkest day in the history of Implats, and our hearts are heavy for the lives lost and the individuals affected by this devastating accident.
We are deeply shocked and saddened by the loss of our colleagues and are in the process of ensuring all next of kin have been contacted. Implats is offering ongoing support to the families and colleagues of those lost in service.
We also hold our injured colleagues in our thoughts at this incredibly difficult time.”
Implats is said to be in consultation with the Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (AMCU) and is working closely with the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE).
Investigations into the cause of the accident have commenced and Implats will provide updates when new information becomes available.
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