The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources (DMPR) has launched an investigation into Valterra Platinum’s Motolotolo Mine in Limpopo, following the death of a 55-year-old worker, Michael Pheagane Ramodike, who was killed when a Load Haul Dump (LHD) machine experienced an engine shutdown, causing it to tilt and trap him between the cabin door and the frame.
Investigation Findings
The DMPR found that the mine had violated safety protocols, particularly regarding the secure operation of machinery, and that there were no adequate measures in place to ensure that unauthorised persons do not ride and operate trackless mobile machines (TMMs). The department also found that the mine had failed to implement measures to prevent workers from being injured as a result of the override proximity detection system.
According to the Department of Mineral Resources, the investigation revealed that the mine had failed to ensure that employees do not get injured as a result of poor maintenance of machines. The report also stated that engineering managers give instructions and take health and safety decisions without legal authority.
Reaction from Labour Unions
The General Industries Union of South Africa (GIWUSA) and the Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (AMCU) have called for accountability, with GIWUSA President Mametlwe Sebei saying that the union is still studying the report and will take further action once they have assessed it.
Valterra Platinum spokesperson Cindy Maneveld said that the company is working towards achieving a safe working environment, but the incident has raised concerns about the mine’s safety record. This is not the first labour and operational challenge at the mine, which was recently demerged from Anglo American Platinum.
- The mine has a history of labour disputes, including an 18-day unprotected strike in 2018 over medical aid changes.
- The mine has been accused of failing to implement adequate safety measures, including the use of proximity detection systems.
- The incident has raised concerns about the mine’s safety record and the need for improved safety protocols.
The DMPR has suspended operations at the mine pending the outcome of the investigation, which is expected to take several weeks to complete. The incident has highlighted the need for improved safety protocols in the mining industry and the importance of holding companies accountable for their safety records.
