WORKERS at a coalmine in Boggabri are undergoing trauma counselling following the tragic death of a colleague in a workplace accident this morning.
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The man, whose name has not yet been released, was working on the construction of a $180m piece of equipment when the incident occurred just before 9am.
It is understood the contractor was on a platform about 20m in the air when he was struck by a falling structure, causing severe head and neck injuries.
Emergency services were called to attend the mine - operated by Boggabri Coal, a wholly owned subsidiary of Idemitsu Australia Resources - at 8.50am.
Colleagues worked to keep the unconscious man alive until paramedics arrived, but he went into cardiac arrest. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigating police are at the site and inspectors from NSW Trade and Investment's mine and safety investigation unit will attend.
An accident at Idemitsu Australia Resources’ Boggabri Coal Mine occurred this morning, resulting in one fatality. My thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends and community affected by this tragic accident. A Police investigation is underway, and inspectors from NSW Trade & Investment’s Mine Safety Investigation Unit are currently en route. A full and detailed report will be prepared for the Coroner.
- Minister for Resources and Energy, the Hon Anthony Roberts
The man was working on Thiess-Sedgman's joint venture project to construct a $180 million coal handling and preparation plant for Boggabri Coal.
In a statement, his employers said: "Thiess and Sedgman extend their deepest sympathies to the employee's family and full support is being extended to them."
Resource Minister Anthony Roberts also expressed his sadness at the tragedy and promised "a full and detailed report will be prepared for the coroner".
"My thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends and community affected by this tragic accident," he said.
Idemitsu Australia Resources released a statement early this afternoon announcing all mining would cease at the site until further notice.
"Idemitsu Australia Resources is co-operating fully with NSW Police and workplace authorities as they investigate the incident," the company said.
"Our main priority is the family and workmates of the person involved and we will work closely with our construction contractor to provide the appropriate support and assistance at this time.
"Our deepest sympathies are extended to the family of the person involved."
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