Two Workers Killed In Underground Accident At Sibanye-Stillwater’s Kloof 8 Shaft

Two contractor employees have died following an underground incident at Sibanye-Stillwater’s Kloof 8 shaft operation in South Africa.

According to the company, the fatal accident occurred on 3 May 2026 during a routine scheduled shaft inspection at the Kloof 8 operation.

Inspection Platform Fell Down Shaft

Sibanye-Stillwater said preliminary findings indicate that an inspection platform detached from the main winder conveyance while preparations for the shaft inspection were underway.

The detached platform reportedly descended uncontrollably down the shaft, resulting in fatal injuries to the two contractor employees involved in the operation.

The company confirmed the deaths in a statement issued on 4 May 2026.

Support Provided To Families And Colleagues

Sibanye-Stillwater said counselling and support services are being provided to the families and colleagues of the deceased workers.

The company’s board and management extended condolences to the families, friends and co-workers affected by the tragedy.

Investigation Underway

An investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident is currently underway in line with South African mining safety regulations.

The company said all relevant stakeholders, including organised labour representatives and the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, have been notified.

Mining Safety Remains A Major Industry Concern

The incident adds to ongoing concerns around mine safety within South Africa’s mining industry, where underground operations continue to present significant operational and safety risks.

Industry stakeholders have repeatedly emphasised the importance of stricter safety protocols, infrastructure maintenance and improved worker protection measures across deep-level mining operations.

Sibanye-Stillwater is one of South Africa’s largest precious metals producers, with operations spanning gold and platinum group metals mining both locally and internationally.