Seismic event at Harmony’s Elandsrand Mine near Carletonville
Johannesburg. Wednesday 27 February 2008. Harmony Gold Mining Company Limited (Harmony) regretfully announces that a seismic event, which occurred at the Elandsrand Mine near Carletonville at 10h30 local time, has caused the death of two mineworkers.
The localised seismic event, which measured 0.9 magnitude on the Richter scale, occurred in the 78/5 stope causing a fall of ground in a panel. The damage caused by the event was confined to the top portion of the stope panel.
Two persons were trapped by the fall of ground and although they were rescued by their fellow workers within 20 minutes, regrettably both succumbed from their injuries at the scene of the accident. No other persons were seriously injured.
The workplace has been stopped until further investigations are done.
The management of Elandsrand Mine has expressed their sincere condolences to the families of the deceased and sympathy to those affected by the tragic accident. Chief Executive Graham Briggs also expresses his sympathy with the families and assures them of Harmony’s support during this difficult time.
For more details contact:
Alwyn Pretorius
Chief Operating Officer
North Region
on +27 (0)82 806 0872