Production has resumed at Impala Platinum's Rustenburg operation and is set to recommence at Aquarius Platinum's Everest mine this afternoon, following the suspension of operations after fatal accidents.

Impala Platinum anticipates that the closure of its mine has resulted in the loss of 450 oz of platinum, with confirmation of the extent of loss of production from Aquarius is expected later today.

The Department of Mines and Energy has conducted preliminary investigations into the incidents at both operations and will undertake more in-depth safety reviews at as yet unspecified dates.

Aquarius Platinum's workers are returning to work having completed a programme of safety training after the death of Rockdrill operator Tete Tlali in a landfall accident.

A statement from the firm said: "AQPSA (Aquarius Platinum South Africa) management in consultation with the unions decided to cease blasting operations and retrain all 1,700 workers starting on Sunday evening with an emphasis on hazard identification and risks associated with fall of grounds.

"These actions will be completed by Monday afternoon when normal operations are expected to resume."

Both mines had previously been closed in October, also in response to accidents involving workers.

SOURCE:

SA mine death toll rises, closed shafts reopen, 26/11/07
http://www.miningweekly.co.za/article.php?a_id=122055

AQUARIUS PLATINUM LIMITED - Statement re Fatality at Everest Platinum Mine, 26/11/07
http://www.tradingmarkets.com/.site/news/Stock%20News/853184/

SA mine death toll rises, closed shafts reopen, 26/11/07
http://www.miningweekly.co.za/article.php?a_id=122055

AQUARIUS PLATINUM LIMITED - Statement re Fatality at Everest Platinum Mine, 26/11/07
http://www.tradingmarkets.com/.site/news/Stock%20News/853184/

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