Freak weather event bursts a tyre and causes minor injuries at BHP’s Mt Whaleback iron ore mine in WA’s north
Six BHP workers required medical treatment for minor injuries after a freak lightning strike caused a mining dump truck’s tyre to explode and damage buildings being used as shelter.
A lightning bolt blew a dump truck’s tyre off its rim at BHP’s Mount Whaleback iron ore mine near Newman on Saturday.
It’s understood six people inside a nearby crib room and office had first aid treatment on site following the freak incident, but nobody needed to go to hospital and all six workers are now back on shift.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.The minor injuries were caused by the shock wave from the tyre explosion springing a door open and dislodging an air conditioner and television off their wall mounts.
The driver of the dump truck took shelter in the heavy-duty vehicle and was not injured.
Mount Whaleback was under a “red alert” lightning storm status at the time of the lightning strike, meaning all workers had to be undercover.
“Our team members followed thorough safety precautions through this unique weather event and, most importantly, everyone impacted is safe and well after being treated on site,” a BHP spokesman told The West Australian.
The Department of Energy, Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety is currently investigating the incident.
Originally published on PerthNow
