The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) has demanded accountability and an urgent safety intervention at Sibanye-Stillwater’s Kloof No. 8 Shaft near Westonaria in Gauteng, following the deaths of two mineworkers who reportedly fell nearly 2,000 metres during a shaft examination operation.
The union said the tragedy, which happened on Sunday, May 3, exposed serious operational failures and renewed concerns over safety standards, subcontracting and working conditions in the mining sector.
The two workers were part of a subcontracted team preparing for a shaft examination at the time of the incident. NUM said it was deeply concerned that the work was being conducted outside the normally scheduled period for such examinations.
“This devastating incident again highlights the urgent need for heightened safety protocols and corporate accountability within the mining sector,” the union said.
NUM said the mine must take full responsibility for the circumstances that led to the fatal incident, warning that systemic failures within mining operations continue to place workers at risk.
The union pointed to what it described as poor oversight during high-risk operations, growing dependence on subcontractors, deteriorating working conditions linked to labour brokering, and increasing production pressures that force workers to operate in unsafe environments.
“NUM has consistently warned that an excessive reliance on subcontractors undermines safety standards and exposes workers to unnecessary risks,” the union said.
The union also accused mining companies of prioritising production over worker safety, saying employees are often expected to perform dangerous duties under difficult conditions and for lower wages.
NUM has called on the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources to launch what it described as a “thorough and transparent investigation” into the incident to ensure accountability.
It further demanded that operations at the affected shaft be halted immediately and subjected to a comprehensive safety audit before any work resumes.
“The safety and lives of mineworkers must always take precedence over production and profit,” the union said.
Sibanye-Stillwater said counselling and support were being provided to the families and colleagues of the deceased mineworkers, while management and the board extended condolences.
“The family and colleagues of the deceased are receiving counselling, and the family will be provided with support during this difficult time. The Board and management of Sibanye-Stillwater extend their heartfelt condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of the deceased during this difficult time.”
The company confirmed that a full investigation into the incident is underway, with all relevant stakeholders including organised labour and the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources notified in line with regulatory requirements.
It also said there was no damage to shaft infrastructure, but operations at the shaft have been suspended pending investigations.
NUM extended condolences to the families, colleagues and loved ones of the deceased mineworkers, describing the incident as a painful reminder of the dangers still faced by workers underground despite repeated calls for improved safety measures in the mining industry.
The Star