Sibanye-Stillwater Halts Operations After Fatal Shaft Accident at Kloof Mine
Sibanye-Stillwater Kloof Mine Accident: Two Workers Killed as Operations Suspended Pending Investigation
JSE- and NYSE-listed mining company Sibanye-Stillwater has confirmed the deaths of two contractor employees following a fatal accident at its Kloof 8 shaft on 3 May.
The incident occurred during preparations for a routine scheduled shaft inspection. According to the company, an inspection platform became detached from the main winder conveyance, causing it to descend uncontrollably down the shaft. The two contractors sustained fatal injuries as a result.
Investigation and regulatory response underway
A full investigation into the cause of the incident is currently in progress. Sibanye-Stillwater said it has notified all relevant stakeholders, including organised labour and the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, in line with regulatory requirements.
The company has also confirmed that counselling support is being provided to the families and colleagues of the deceased. Additional assistance will be extended to the families during this period.
Operations suspended at Kloof shaft
Although the incident did not cause damage to shaft infrastructure, mining operations at the affected shaft have been temporarily halted pending the outcome of investigations and safety reviews.
The board and management of Sibanye-Stillwater expressed their condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased workers.
About the mine
The Kloof operation is an intermediate to ultra-deep-level gold mine located west of Johannesburg, South Africa, and forms part of Sibanye-Stillwater’s broader gold mining portfolio.
