Two miners have been killed after a dozer collided with a light vehicle at the Suncor Oil Sands site in Canada.
In a statement released to AMSJ by Mining Contractor ClearStream Energy (TSX: CSM), the company confirmed the tragedy “We are deeply saddened to report that an incident occurred yesterday (December 30) at approximately 5:30 p.m. at the Suncor Fort Hills mine, in which a dozer made contact with a light-duty truck resulting in the death of two members of our ClearStream family. Out of respect for their families, their names will not be released at this time.”
AMSJ has confirmed that a 29-year-old man and a 28-year-old woman were pronounced dead at the scene of the horrific incident. A 58-year dozer operator was not injured in the incident. Workers at the site told AMSJ that it was apparent the at the vehicle entered the dozer contact zone. They said they heard “horrific screams” over the radio at or around the time of the incident.
“It is not something that should ever happen or that anyone should hear” a worker at the site said.
“We were working our cycle over Christmas and one more day to go before home….”
Dozer Light vehicle interaction at Maules creek
ClearStream Energy confirmed “First and foremost, we extend our deepest condolences to the families, friends and co-workers of those we have lost. Our thoughts and prayers are with them as they endure this incredibly difficult time and we grieve this loss together,” said Yves Paletta, Chief Executive Officer.
Occupational Health and Safety has been notified and ClearStream is working closely with Suncor and appropriate authorities with respect to the incident investigation. Suncor Fort Hills has stood down mining operations while the investigation is underway.”
The company said that “The safety and security of our employees and contractors remain our number one priority. Our immediate focus is to provide support to the employees’ families and co-workers during this extremely difficult time. We have established a dedicated support line through our Employee Family Assistance Program (EFAP).”
Another man died in 2017 at the Suncor Millennium mine site during a trenching accident.
In August 2019 a mineworker died in a dozer collision with a light vehicle at the Snapper Mineral Sands Mine
Fort Hills Mine Site Video (Watch Below)
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