Mine fatality investigated by Resources Regulator

A contract worker at the Peak Gold Mines has died after attempts to revive him were unsuccessful.

On 3 April, the 36-year-old man was operating a mobile rock drill alone in a development road about 900 m below the surface, when he reported over the mine’s two-way radio system that he was feeling unwell.

A nearby worker attended the 9300 level and transported him to the crib room in a light vehicle. He was then driven to the surface.

On the way to the surface, the worker lost consciousness and stopped breathing. He was given cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) on the way to the surface. On the surface, mine emergency response personnel continued CPR and applied a defibrillator in attempts to resuscitate him.

NSW Ambulance transported him to Cobar District Hospital where further attempts to resuscitate him were unsuccessful.

The NSW Resources Regulator responded to the incident and has commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the worker’s death.

Preliminary investigations reportedly found the work environment to be hot and humid. The mine operator and contractor are cooperating with the investigation.

An investigation report will be prepared for the Secretary of Department of Planning and Environment and the NSW Coroner. The cause of death is being considered by the NSW Coroner.

Image credit: ©iStockphoto.com/ANDRS EDUARD