Endeavor Mine Restart Underway Following Deadly 28 October Blast
Polymetals Resources has begun a staged restart of its Endeavor Silver-Zinc Mine following a tragic explosion that claimed two lives. The company is conducting a thorough safety review as investigations continue.
- Fatal explosion on 28 October at Endeavor Mine resulted in two deaths and one injury
- Operations resuming in stages with transition to continuous shifts planned
- Comprehensive safety management system review underway before blasting restarts
- Investigations by NSW Resources Regulator, police, and independent experts ongoing
- Support and counseling services provided to employees amid recovery
Tragedy at Endeavor Mine
Polymetals Resources Ltd (ASX, POL) has announced the resumption of operations at its Endeavor Silver-Zinc Mine in Cobar, New South Wales, following a devastating explosion on 28 October that resulted in the deaths of two employees, Holly Clarke and Patrick “Ambrose” McMullen, and injured a third, Mackenzie Stirling. The incident has cast a somber shadow over the company and the local community, prompting an outpouring of support and condolences.
Safety and Investigation Focus
The company is working closely with the NSW Resources Regulator, NSW Police, and independent mining experts to investigate the cause of the unintended initiation of a ballistic disc used to release a stope hang-up. While the specific cause remains under investigation, the area of the incident remains under a statutory non-entry notice to ensure safety and preserve the integrity of the inquiry.
Before blasting activities resume, Polymetals is undertaking a rigorous review of its Safety Management System, particularly concerning the handling and use of explosives. This review aims to identify any deficiencies and implement improvements to prevent future incidents, reflecting the company’s commitment to employee safety and operational integrity.
Phased Operational Restart
Operations are restarting in a staged manner, with rostered mining, maintenance, and processing employees returning to dayshift work and gradually transitioning to continuous shifts over the coming weeks. This measured approach balances the need to maintain production with the wellbeing of staff as they recover from the traumatic event.
Executive Chairman Dave Sproule expressed his deep sorrow and pride in the community’s response, highlighting the collective efforts of first responders, emergency teams, regulators, and employees. He reaffirmed the company’s resolve to move forward and restore Endeavor Mine as a long-term, profitable operation while honouring the memory of the lost employees.
Looking Ahead
Polymetals’ transparent communication and proactive safety measures will be closely watched by investors and regulators alike. The company’s ability to manage operational continuity while addressing safety concerns will be critical to restoring confidence and ensuring sustainable production in one of Australia’s premier polymetallic mining regions.
Bottom Line?
Polymetals’ path forward hinges on safety reforms and investigation outcomes as Endeavor Mine cautiously restarts.
Questions in the middle?
- What specific safety improvements will Polymetals implement following the review?
- How will the incident impact the mine’s production targets and financial outlook?
- What timeline is expected for full operational resumption and regulatory clearance?
