Harmony Gold: NUM calls for probe into miner’s death

THE NATIONAL Union of Mineworkers (NUM) called on the Mineral Resources Department yesterday to investigate a death at Harmony Gold’s Tshepong mine near Welkom in the Free State. “The NUM calls upon the department… to continue with the investigation and must leave no stone unturned,” its health and safety secretary, Erick Gcilitshana, said. The female miner died in a tramming accident on Monday. “The NUM is of the view that one death in the industry is one too many… The NUM fought hard for women to be allowed to work underground, but we did not fight for them to be killed in fatal accidents.” Harmony chief executive Graham Briggs said at the time investigations were under way. “It is with great sadness that we learned of the fatality. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family, colleagues and friends.” The department could not be reached for comment. – Sapa