Mount Isa Mines: Two workers seriously burnt at copper mine
Two men have suffered serious burns at a copper mine in Queensland’s northwest.
The contract workers were at the Mount Isa Mines copper smelter on Thursday afternoon when a steam vent opened next to where they were standing.
They were rushed to hospital with significant injuries, one man in a serious condition and the other stable.
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An inspector travelled to the site and issued a directive to isolate the scene, a spokesperson said.
AAP has contacted mine owner Glencore for comment.
The Australian Workers Union is concerned about how the incident unfolded.
“Tough questions need to be asked about how an incident like this has occurred,” Secretary Stacey Schinnerl said.
Resources Minister Scott Stewart said he expected a thorough investigation given the responsibility of the sector for worker safety.
“My thoughts are with the workers and their families at what’s obviously a very difficult time,” he said.
