South32 has suspended non-essential work at its Worsley Alumina refinery in Western Australia after a contractor was fatally injured at the site early morning on March 14.
Emergency services were called to the refinery near Collie, about 200 kilometres south of Perth, shortly before 4 am on Saturday, according to the ABC.
A 47-year-old man died at the scene despite immediate first aid being administered.
WA Police confirmed a report will be prepared for the coroner, while WorkSafe WA has launched an investigation into the incident.
In a statement, South32 said it had temporarily halted work not critical to the safety and stability of the site.
“We are [also] taking steps to understand what has happened and [are] assisting the relevant authorities with their inquiries,” the company said.
The miner offered its “deepest sympathies and condolences” to the worker’s family and colleagues and said it was providing support and counselling services to those affected.
WorkSafe Commissioner Sally North described the incident as a tragedy and also offered her condolences.
Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident remain ongoing.
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