Resources Safety & Health Queensland is investigating a tragic turn of fate at the Saraji South coal mine in Queensland on Monday afternoon.
The fatal twist of fate occurred as a result of a twist of fate by a light vehicle at the BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) mine in Bowen Basin.
Two men are believed to have been running in the fuel tank of an open-pit mine when a crash between two cars resulted in serious crush injuries to a 27-year-old coal mine worker.
The coal mine employee was taken to the hospital but tragically died from his injuries.
RSHQ chief executive Rob Djukic said the death would affect the entire Queensland mining community.
“We want to extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of the victim,” Djukic said.
“As soon as we learned of the incident, we launched an investigation by sending several investigators and inspectors from our Coal Inspection and Serious Incident Investigation Unit to the scene.
“We’re also working closely with BMA to find out what went wrong and prevent this from happening again.”
Operations at Saraji have been suspended until the investigation begins.
Mining and Energy Union Queensland president Mitch Hughes said the fatality was the worst news the community could receive.
“We are devastated that a coal miner is not returning home at the end of their shift,” Hughes said. “Our hearts go out to friends and family.
“We offer our heartfelt thanks to the first responders and our co-workers who would possibly be traumatized by the events.
“Union safety inspectors are at the site to conduct a thorough investigation, we will ensure no stone is left unturned in understanding what has occurred and preventing future fatalities and injuries.”
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