BHP confirms fatality at Saraji mine

The company are saddened to confirm that 49 year old Allan Houston from the Rockhampton region died during an incident where the dozer he was operating at Saraji rolled from an elevated position at around 10 pm (Queensland time) on 31 December 2018. The site emergency response team was activated immediately following the incident and appropriate authorities engaged. 

The company’s immediate focus is to support Houston’s family and friends, as well as the company’s people that may be affected by this incident. 

Houston was a well-known and popular member of the Saraji and Workpac team. Houston began his career as an apprentice boilermaker at Blackwater mine in approximately 1988 and since then, worked in the industry at various mines in Queensland. Houston’s father, Winston, had a long history in the Blackwater region and was a well-known and respected dragline operator for many years. Houston’s family is especially proud of his reputation as a highly skilled dozer and dragline operator. 

BHP extends its deepest sympathy to Houston’s loving mother, 23 year old daughter, sister and brother as well as his friends and colleagues. BMA representatives have met with his family and will continue to provide whatever support possible during this deeply emotional time. 

It is with great sadness BHP Billiton Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) regrets to advise an incident occurred at Saraji mine near Moranbah on 31 December which resulted in the death of one of its people.

Details of the incident are still being established and an investigation into the incident is underway.

The site incident management team has been activated, and the emergency services including police are attending the scene. BMA is working closely with the relevant authorities on this incident. 

The welfare of the family of the deceased and the safety of our people are our highest priorities. 

Operations at Saraji mine have been suspended until further notice.  

BMA’s Employee Assistance Programme provider is available to support employees and their families affected by this incident and is contactable on 1800 056 076. 

The company are deeply saddened by this news and will provide more information as it is available. 

Read the article online at: https://www.globalminingreview.com/special-reports/02012019/bhp-confirms-fatality-at-saraji-mine/