Worker killed in rail incident at BHP Pilbara mine

A worker has died after a rail-related incident overnight at BHP’s Boodarie facility near Port Hedland.

BHP WA Iron Ore asset president Brandon Craig said a person was struck by a locomotive at about 9.30pm Tuesday.

“It is with deep sadness that we confirm a member of BHP’s WA team was fatally injured in an incident at our rail yard in Port Hedland last night,” he said.

“All of us at BHP are devastated by this tragic event. Of course, that is nothing compared to the grief and loss being felt by the person’s family, friends and colleagues.

“Our hearts are with them at this time and we will provide any support that we can.”

Craig said BHP has suspended all its Pilbara iron ore operations for 24 hours and made counselling available for employees.

“WA Police have attended site and safety regulators including the Office of National Rail Safety have been informed,” he said.

“A full investigation will be undertaken by BHP to understand what has happened.”

It is the first mining fatality in WA since October 2022, when the industry recorded two deaths – a utility worker at Karlawinda Gold Mine who was killed when his vehicle was crushed by a dump truck, and a miner who was killed in a rockfall at St Ives underground gold mine near Kambalda.

More to come.

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