Rustenburg – Rescue Operations are underway at Impala Platinum Mine in Rustenburg, North West, where a cable malfunctioned and caused a cage, carrying workers, to plunge below.
“It is with regret Implats reports that a serious safety incident involving a winder rope occurred this afternoon at our 11 Shaft operation at Impala Rustenburg in the North West province, South Africa,” said Impala in a statement Monday.
“This rope is connected to the personnel conveyance, which hoists employees up and down the shaft.
“The conveyance comprises three levels, each with a capacity to carry 35 personnel.”
Impala further said: “Initial reports indicate that there have been several serious injuries, but an accurate assessment of the full human impacts of the accident is not currently possible, given the complexity of the rescue operation.
“Following the incident, the paramedics and our proto teams were immediately mobilised.
“They have accessed underground workings and the two upper levels of the conveyance have been cleared.”
Impala said the rescue was now focused on vacating the lower level.
“The safety of our employees is paramount and we are providing all possible support to those involved and working closely with the relevant authorities,” said Impala
“We remain steadfast in our dedication to ensuring our colleagues are brought home safely and continue to prioritise safety above all else.
“Implats will provide regular updates when new information becomes available.”
Meanwhile, unverified reports from the mine say as many as 76 employees may have been injured.
