ArcelorMittal saddened by fatality in Newcastle
ArcelorMittal South Africa released a statement regarding the tragic incident that left one man dead on Sunday afternoon.
Earlier this afternoon, the Newcastle Advertiser reported a tragic incident at ArcelorMittal Newcastle, which claimed the life of Renier Dippenaar, a 22-year-old semi-skilled boilermaker.
Gracious Maswanganyi, Manager – Corporate Social Responsility and Communications for ArcelorMittal South Africa, issued a statement shortly after the article was published:
‘It is with great sadness that ArcelorMittal South Africa confirms that a contractor working at the Newcastle Plant sustained fatal head injuries on Sunday, August 10. Mr Dippenaar, who was employed at Yandisa Tony’s Construction, sustained fatal head injuries when he was removing a redundant 150mm diameter pipeline situated approximately 350mm above another pipeline.
The company extends its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased, who are being assisted and supported by ArcelorMittal South Africa and Yandisa Tony’s Construction. All relevant authorities have been informed and investigations are underway. The Department of Labour has also inspected the area and cleared it for operations to continue. ArcelorMittal South Africa remains committed to achieving its goal of zero fatalities and zero injuries at its operations and the safety of employees and contractors remains the company’s primary concern.’
It is believed Mr Dippenaar was from Empangeni, and leaves behind a four-year-old son. The Newcastle Advertiser also wishes to extend their most sincere condolences to his family and friends.
