On 25 April 2024, a serious workplace incident at the Mount Isa Mines copper smelter in Queensland, Australia, resulted in two workers sustaining severe burn injuries.
The incident has raised concerns about workplace safety and the welfare of employees at the smelter.
The injured workers, a 26-year-old man and a 25-year-old man were involved in an accident caused by steam escaping from a vent near their work area.
The 26-year-old worker suffered burns to 60 per cent of his body and is currently in an induced coma, while the 25-year-old worker is in a critical condition.
Following the incident, smelter operations have been suspended, and an investigation into the cause is underway.
Mount Isa Mines, owned by Glencore, is collaborating with Resources Safety and Health Queensland (RSHQ) to determine the circumstances that led to the accident.
The Australian Workers’ Union (AWU) has expressed deep concern over the incident and the injuries sustained by the workers.
AWU Queensland Secretary Stacey Schinnerl emphasised the importance of workplace safety, stating: “Every worker deserves to come home safe.”
The injured workers were airlifted to a hospital in Brisbane for treatment, where they are currently receiving medical care.
Glencore has stated that the safety of its employees is its top priority and that it is committed to ensuring a safe working environment.
The incident at Mount Isa Mines serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by workers in industrial settings and highlights the need for stringent safety measures to protect employees.
The AWU has called for a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the incident and prevent similar accidents from occurring in the future.
The injured workers’ families have been notified, and they are receiving support from the company and the AWU during this difficult time.
The AWU has also urged Glencore to provide financial and emotional support to the families of the injured workers.
As investigations continue, the focus remains on supporting the injured workers and their families and ensuring that such incidents are not repeated.