The fatality at the mine compounds problems it has been having with unfavourable mining conditions and an industrial dispute at BHP Billiton Energy Coal South Africa.

The company has confirmed that an accident took place at Khutala, near Witbank, which resulted in the death of one of its employees.

“The fatality occurred during the performance of maintenance work on a conveyor belt in the underground operations and the incident has been reported to the relevant authorities,” the company said.

“BECSA has conveyed its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased and is providing support to the bereaved and those affected at the operation.

“Mining activities at the underground operation have been suspended and the company has commenced an investigation in order to establish the circumstances of the accident.”

In October 2009 mining operations supervisor Gregory Goslett was fatally injured in an accident while driving a light vehicle at the mine.

BECSA is 100% owned by BHP Billiton and produces energy coal for the South African domestic and export markets. It has three primary coal-mining operations: Khutala colliery, Klipspruit colliery and Middelburg Mine Services, located near the towns eMalahleni (Witbank) and Middelburg in the coalfields of Mpumalanga province.