Chile’s Escondida mine gradually resumes operations after fatal accident

SANTIAGO, September 24 - BHP's Escondida mine, the world's largest copper producer, has begun a gradual return to operations following a fatal accident that occurred on Wednesday when a worker was killed during maintenance work, the company announced on Thursday. The resumption of operations is being carefully monitored, with assessments being made regarding the mine's safety, workforce welfare, operational preparedness, risk management measures, and compliance with regulatory requirements, according to BHP's statement.

In addition to the mine's operations, other parts of the business were also put on hold in the wake of the incident, although some activities continued at reduced levels. As per Chilean regulations, mines are only permitted to resume activities after a fatal accident once safety inspectors have confirmed that the conditions are secure. The Escondida mine is situated in Chile's arid northern region of the Atacama Desert.

BHP, the Australian mining giant, operates the Escondida mine, while Rio Tinto holds a 30% stake in the operation. Japan-based JECO Corp has a 12.5% ownership interest in the mine.