Labour Ministry probing mining accident in Region 7

The Labour Ministry’s Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Department has launched an investigation into a fatal workplace incident that occurred on January 28, at Thomas Island, Mining District No. Three, along the Puruni River in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni).
The accident claimed the life of 68-year-old Emmanuel Jeffrey, a miner of 2121, One Mile, Parika, Region Three (Essequibo Islands -West Demerara).
Reports indicate that at about 11:30h on January 28, Jeffrey was working alongside two employees undercutting the pit face when the eastern wall of the 12-foot-deep pit collapsed, burying him completely. Despite rescue efforts, his body was recovered approximately an hour later and later pronounced dead at the Bartica Hospital.

Following the incident, OSH Officer Naipaul Persaud, along with Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) Safety Officer Stokley Roberts and Mines Officer Andrew Gibson, conducted an on-site assessment. Preliminary findings suggested that unsafe mining practices were in use at Jeffrey’s operation, which involved a four-inch land dredge.
In response, the OSH Department reminded pit operators to adhere to recommended safety measures, including maintaining appropriate slope angles, ensuring proper ingress and egress points, and carefully managing the use of water jets to prevent unpredictable collapses.
Labour Minister Joseph Hamilton has extended condolences to Jeffrey’s relatives, co-workers, and friends. He also reiterated the importance of enforcing safety and health practices in mining operations to prevent further loss of life.