Johannesburg - The collapse of the floor of Eyethu Fishing at the Port Elizabeth harbour would be properly investigated, the company said on Friday.
“The management of Eyethu Fishing and the relevant authorities are conducting a formal inquiry into the incident last night at their production facility,” company chairman Stephen Dondolo said in a statement.
Eighty-eight employees were injured when the top floor of the facility collapsed on Thursday at about 8pm, paramedics said on Friday.
“Two of the workers were seriously injured and remain hospitalised, while a further 15 workers were admitted for further treatment and observation,” said Dondolo.
About 200 other workers in other areas at the facility were unharmed.
“Eyethu Fishing management immediately responded to ensure that all the staff received appropriate medical care and will continue to do everything in our power to assist the staff going forward,” said Dondolo.
The injured were stabilised at the scene and were then transported to various hospitals for medical assistance.
Dondolo said 17 people were admitted to local hospitals while the rest were released after receiving medical treatment.
“Our main concern is the well-being of the workers who were injured when the mezzanine floor passage next to the canteen collapsed into an unoccupied area below,” said Dondolo.
He said the affected areas would be closed until repairs were completed, while the other areas would be re-opened on Saturday.
The labour department would also help with the investigation into the accident.
Sapa