EMPLOYEES CONTINUE TO EXIT VALE’S TOTTEN MINE

Rhea-AI Summary

Vale reports the successful ascent of employees from the Totten Mine in Sudbury, Ontario, following an incident where 39 workers were trapped underground due to shaft damage. Employees utilized a secondary egress ladderway system to exit, with the first 19 returning to the surface early this morning. All personnel are in good health, and the exit was facilitated by Vale’s mine rescue team and Ontario Mine Rescue. Management expressed gratitude for the team's efforts and the affected employees' patience during this incident.

Positive

• Successful rescue of 39 trapped employees without injuries.
• Efficient response from mine rescue teams ensuring safety.

Negative

• Damage to the shaft causing operational disruptions.

Sudbury, Ontario, Sept. 28, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- For Immediate Release

 

SUDBURY, September 28, 2021 – Vale informs that the return of employees to surface at the Company’s Totten Mine in Sudbury, Ontario continues this morning following the successful ascent of several individuals overnight.

 

On Sunday, 39 employees were unable to exit the mine due to damage in the shaft that houses the conveyance used to transport employees between surface and underground. While conditions in the shaft were evaluated, employees reported to underground refuge stations as part of the company’s standard procedures.

 

Sunday evening, employees started making their way to surface via a secondary egress ladderway system. Nineteen employees returned to surface early this morning and the remainder are on their way.

 

“We thank the impacted employees for their patience and perseverance and the mine rescue teams for their tireless dedication and support,” said Gord Gilpin, Head of Mining Operations for Vale’s Ontario Operations. “This has been an incredible team effort.”

 

The remaining employees are expected to be on surface later this morning. The employees that have returned to surface are in good health and eager to return home.

 

The employees’ exit is being supported by Vale’s mine rescue team and Ontario Mine Rescue.

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FAQ

What happened at Vale's Totten Mine on September 28, 2021?

On September 28, 2021, 39 employees were trapped underground due to damage in the mine shaft but were successfully rescued.

How did Vale employees return to the surface?

Employees used a secondary egress ladderway system to safely exit the Totten Mine.

Were any employees harmed during the incident at the Totten Mine?

No, all employees who returned were reported to be in good health.

Who assisted in the rescue of employees at Vale's Totten Mine?

Vale's mine rescue team and Ontario Mine Rescue provided support during the rescue operation.

What caused the incident at Vale's Totten Mine?

The incident was caused by damage to the shaft that transports employees between the surface and underground.