BHP has begun a phased restart of operations at the Escondida copper mine in Chile after a worker was killed during maintenance. The company says it is prioritizing workforce wellbeing, operational readiness and risk controls while inspections continue. Chilean safety authorities must confirm safe conditions before a full resumption; Escondida is operated by BHP with Rio Tinto holding 30% and JECO Corp 12.5%.
Escondida Mine Begins Phased Restart After Fatal Maintenance Accident
FILE PHOTO: A drone view shows BHP's Escondida copper mine, in Antofagasta, Chile August 15, 2024. REUTERS/Cristian Rudolffi/File Photo
SANTIAGO, Sept 24 — BHP said on Thursday that operations at its Escondida copper mine in Chile, the world's largest by output, are being brought back gradually as inspections and safety evaluations continue.
Work at the site was halted on Wednesday after a worker died during maintenance activities. BHP emphasized a cautious, phased approach that prioritizes workforce wellbeing and operational readiness before expanding activity.
"The Company continues to assess the conditions for a gradual resumption of Mine activities, taking into account workforce wellbeing, operational readiness, risk controls and applicable authority requirements," the company said in a statement.
Following the incident, several operational areas beyond core mine operations were temporarily suspended; some tasks have continued at reduced rates while investigators and safety teams carry out assessments.
Regulatory Context and Ownership
Under Chilean regulations, operations affected by a fatal accident can only fully resume once safety inspectors verify that conditions are safe. Escondida is located in Chile's northern Atacama Desert. BHP operates the mine; Rio Tinto holds a 30% stake and Japan-based JECO Corp owns 12.5%.
Reporting by Fabian Cambero; Writing by Natalia Siniawski; Editing by Iñigo Alexander.
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