WorkSafe Charges Mining Companies Over Worker Deaths in Western Australia

Incident Overview

WorkSafe Western Australia has charged two mining contractors and a mine operator following the deaths of two workers in separate incidents at mines in the Pilbara and Goldfields regions in October 2022. The charges allege failures to ensure worker health and safety, resulting in death and exposure to risk of death or serious injury.

The companies face maximum penalties of $3.5 million for causing death and $1.8 million for exposing workers to risk of death or serious injury under WA’s Work Health and Safety laws.

• Fatalities:
  • Deceased Workers:
• Injuries:
  • None reported.

• Deceased Workers:

WorkSafe Western Australia has charged two mining contractors and a mine operator following the deaths of two workers in separate incidents at mines in the Pilbara and Goldfields regions in October 2022. The charges allege failures to ensure worker health and safety, resulting in death and exposure to risk of death or serious injury.

WorkSafe Western Australia has completed its investigation and laid charges against all three companies. RUC Mining Contractors will appear in Kalgoorlie Magistrates Court in November 2024, while MACA Mining and Greenmount Resources will face Newman Magistrates Court in December 2024.

WorkSafe Western Australia encourages any workers, contractors or persons with relevant information about these incidents or workplace safety concerns at mining operations to contact WorkSafe WA on 1300 307 877 or lodge a report via worksafe.wa.gov.au.