A serious underground incident at Sibanye-Stillwater’s Kloof Gold Mine has left 260 employees temporarily trapped following a mechanical failure at the Kloof 7 sub-shaft.

According to a statement from the mining company, a rock winder skip door unexpectedly opened at the loading point on level 39 yesterday, causing operational disruptions and minor structural damage down to levels 40 and 41. The malfunction also resulted in additional damage on level 35, which has since been cleared and made safe.

Employees safe and accounted for

James Wellsted, Sibanye-Stillwater’s Executive Vice President of Investor Relations and Corporate Affairs, confirmed that all 260 employees are accounted for, safe, and have been provided with food and support.

“We are actively implementing our safety and shaft examination procedures. Once these are completed, we will begin hoisting employees to surface,” said Wellsted.

Precautionary measures in place

As a precaution, following a detailed risk assessment, officials decided it was safer for the employees to remain at the sub-shaft station rather than walk long distances underground. The mine’s rescue and safety teams are continuing shaft inspections and maintenance to ensure the hoisting system is fully operational before initiating the return to surface.

If operations proceed as planned, all affected personnel were expected to reach the surface safely by midday today.

Company prioritizes safety and communication

Sibanye-Stillwater has reaffirmed its commitment to employee safety and transparent communication during incidents such as this. The mining house continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates as necessary.