AMCU responds to dual fatalities at Northam’s Zondereinde
Trade union the Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (AMCU) has expressed concern about the alleged deaths of two employees at Northam Zondereinde mine in Northam, in Limpopo.
According to preliminary information, AMCU notes that, on June 13, a development crew was conducting an early entry examination at 1 Shaft when a strain burst occurred at the development face. The union says the rock drill operator attempted to take evasive action but was struck by the rock.
AMCU says crew members immediately assisted the injured worker, moved him to a safe area, and administered first aid. The control room was informed, and paramedics were dispatched underground.
It notes that the occupational medical practitioner (OMP) and life support team attended to the injured employee and prepared him for airlift transfer to Milpark Hospital. He allegedly succumbed to his injuries while receiving treatment at the mine medical centre.
AMCU adds that a second fatal incident occurred at the same mine later that day in the processing plant’s smelter converter aisle where a contractor employee supposedly died after falling from a crane during maintenance work.
The trade union notes that the control room was immediately notified and that paramedics were dispatched to the smelter. It adds that the OMP and life support team attended to the injured contractor employee.
Unfortunately, despite emergency response efforts in both cases, AMCU says they succumbed to their injuries.
“We extend our heartfelt sympathies to the families, friends, and colleagues of the two workers who lost their lives while on duty. These tragic deaths represent not only the loss of workers but also the loss of breadwinners whose families will bear the consequences of these incidents for years to come,” says AMCU president Joseph Mathunjwa.