An international mining company based in Western Australia has isolated twenty foreign mineworkers as a result of a Novel Coronavirus threat.
The Sino Iron Ore mine run by Citic Pacific Mining in the Pilbara has implemented control measures to isolate the workers due to the spread of Coronavirus globally but says it does not believe that the workers are infected. On advice from medical professionals, the company said it believed it necessary to isolate the group of workers.
The company said in a statement on Monday afternoon that it had implemented measures requiring workers who had visited China to remain in their rooms in isolation for a 14-day period.
READ RELATED INFORMATION ON CORONAVIRUS
- Coronavirus Map
- Tips to protect your mining camp from coronavirus
- Coronavirus | psychologists offer advice for maintaining positive mental health
An official statement by the company said “As a result, a total of 20 people at site are currently in isolation at the project’s main accommodation village, where their wellbeing is being closely monitored and care management arrangements finalised”
“We’re currently working with our departments and contractors to identify any additional staff and contractors who have recently travelled to China”
The company highlighted that the measure was a great inconvenience to the affected workers and was placing an additional burden on the mine’s resources but the “health and wellbeing of staff and contractors remained its top priority.”
“Our actions have the support of the Western Australian health department and are in accordance with the company’s disease risk management procedures,” it said.
“We continue to keep relevant authorities and our staff and contractors regularly informed.”
Sino Iron is located at Cape Preston, about 100km south west of Karratha in Western Australia’s Pilbara region. It is Australia’s largest magnetite mining and processing operation.
Read more Mining Safety News
Add Comment