Another fatality confirmed after Rustenburg mine tragedy

The number of people who have lost their lives after a conveyance cage accident at a Rustenburg mine on November 27, has reached 13.

The latest fatality was confirmed by Impala Platinum Holdings Limited (Implats) in a statement released yesterday.

“Implats reports with deep sorrow and regret that an employee who was hospitalised following the accident at Impala Rustenburg’s 11 Shaft succumbed to his injuries and passed away yesterday [December 3]. Implats has offered its condolences to and remains in close contact with his family,” the statement by Johan Theron reads.

Eleven people initially lost their lives, while 75 others were injured when a serious safety incident involving a winder rope occurred.

“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,” a previous statement by Implats reads.

A 12th person passed away in hospital on November 30.

In its latest update, Implats states that as of yesterday morning, 50 employees remain in hospital – eight are in critical care.

Implats says that in collaboration with the families of its affected employees, it has set aside Wednesday as a day of remembrance for the employees who were impacted by the tragic event. A memorial service will be held at Impala Rustenburg to allow employees to come together to honour the memory of their lost, injured and affected colleagues.

The names of the deceased are to be made known at the memorial service, the mine says.