Authorities are examining circumstances surrounding a workplace death.
Mineral Resources recently confirmed an external employee sadly passed away, prompting it to suspend operations.
“At approximately 4pm on 12 June 2023 an incident occurred at the Onslow Iron Project, which tragically resulted in the fatality of an employee of a contractor at the Ken’s Bore site,” a company spokesperson said in a public statement.
“The Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety and WA Police have been notified and are making their way to the site.”
The proponent has already offered “care and support” to colleagues and loved ones. Its employee assistance service provider and senior leadership team are also at the mine site.
“We are shocked and deeply saddened by this tragedy. Our thoughts are with the family, friends and the whole Onslow iron team, and our focus is on supporting them during this difficult time,” managing director Chris Ellison said.
Meanwhile, another external worker died at Woodside Energy’s North Rankin Complex on 2 June 2023.
“An incident occurred at approximately 12pm AWST … which has tragically resulted in the death of an employee of one of Woodside’s contractor companies,” the proponent said in a public statement.
“All other people on board are safe.”
CEO Meg O’Neill described the incident as “heartbreaking” and offered her deepest sympathies to workmates, family and friends.
She promised to take “all steps” to understand circumstances surrounding the tragedy, and “cooperate closely” with both police and the National Offshore Petroleum Safety and Emergency Authority’s ongoing investigations.
Counselling and support services were also offered to employees and contractors through Woodside’s employee assistance program.
