Harmony Gold Mining has reported the death of a worker at its Mponeng mine near Carletonville, following a fall of ground caused by an earth tremor. The incident took place on Thursday, and the company released a statement on Friday confirming the tragic loss of life. Mponeng, known as the world’s deepest mine, operates almost 3,900 meters below the surface.
Following the event, Harmony informed all relevant authorities, and an investigation is underway, led by the Department of Mineral Resources & Energy. The company expressed deep regret over the fatality, emphasizing its commitment to safety. Group CEO, Beyers Nel, stated that the company’s top priority is the safety and well-being of its workers, describing the incident as devastating.
Despite the company’s ongoing efforts to maintain safety, the recent tragedy highlights the need for continued vigilance. Harmony had recently held a “Visible Felt Leadership” day, reinforcing safety measures and reminding employees that they have the right to leave any area where they feel unsafe.
The loss of life is a stark reminder of the inherent risks associated with deep-level mining, and Harmony is committed to taking further action to enhance safety protocols, ensuring that no more lives are lost in similar circumstances.