18 May 2017

New mine safety recommendations after worker's death

7:29 am on 18 May 2017

WorkSafe has issued strong recommendations on mine safety after an accident killed a migrant mine worker in November 2015.

Mario Lelina, 30, from the Philippines, was working for an earthmoving company under contract to a mine in Southland run by Waikaia Gold.

The contracting company - Reefton-based Rosco Contractors - was later prosecuted and ordered to pay $152,000 in fines and reparations.

In a notice issued today, WorkSafe said the accident happened when a hydraulic ram ruptured under pressure and the force of the blast killed Mr Lelina.

It said safety checks were not done on the hydraulic unit beforehand.

In addition, the pressure relief mechanism on the power pack was incompatible with the actual pressure at which the ram could be safely used.

WorkSafe said contractors must always double check this and ensure all modifications to hydraulic gear were reviewed by a specialist engineer.

Waikaia Gold is an alluvial goldmine and employs 35 staff and contractors.