UPDATE:
A rock fall at BHP Billiton’s Olympic Dam mine site in South Australia has claimed the life of a 47-year-old man.
South Australian Police said they were called to the site at 6:30am this morning following reports of a rock fall at the underground mine.
The worker from Tumby Bay died at the scene.
Safe Work SA have been advised and police will be preparing a report for the State Coroner.
It is understood BHP Billiton has stood down most employees and contractors at the mine as an investigation into the incident gets underway.
“The next of kin and family have been informed and we are working closely with the authorities on the matter,” a company spokesman said.
“We extend our deepest condolences and support to our colleague’s family and friends, as well as our other employees and contractors at this difficult time.”
EARLIER:
There is a developing safety incident occurring at BHP Billiton’s Olympic Dam mine site in South Australia, with one person injured.
While the nature of the incident is unclear at this time, BHP confirms the mine’s Field Response Teams and Emergency Response procedures have been activated.
“The company is currently directing all of its efforts to ensuring the safety of personnel in the area,” a company spokesman said.
"We can confirm that at least one person was injured.
“At this stage we can provide no more information, except to stress that our immediate priority is the safety and wellbeing of our people. We will provide more details concerning the incident as soon as they become available.”