140th mine worker for the year dies on SA mines
Solidarity

The death of the 140th mine worker on South African mines can no longer just be another number on mines' record, the trade union Solidarity warned this week. Solidarity called on mining companies to intervene and to take proactive steps by among other things considering the trends in accidents.

A mine worker died in an electricity related accident on Saturday 18 October at about 13:00 at Anglo Coal's Greenside mine some 10km south of Witbank. The accident took place in the process of moving a certain production segment of the mine.

Coal mines are considered the third most dangerous mining sector in South Africa, preceded only by gold and platinum mines. Studies have shown that more than 52% of mining fatalities in South Africa in 2007 took place during the peak time between 08:00 and 14:00. Last year four mine workers died in electricity related accidents, while 36 others were injured.

Solidarity welcomes Anglo Coal's quick reaction to tackle safety. The group has already indicated that all electricians will now be sent for training as well as re-testing before further moving will be done.