OREANDA-NEWS.Uralkali (LSE: URKA; the Company), one of the world’s largest potash producers, announces that on 15 March 2015 a fatal accident took place at the Berezniki-4 mine during repair works being carried out to a shuttle car. The operator of a rock removing machine died as a result of the accident. A special committee has been set up to investigate the causes of the accident. For the period of the investigation, the following employees have been suspended from work:
  • Director of the Berezniki-4 mine and plant complex;
  • Chief Engineer of the Berezniki-4 mine and plant complex;
  • Head of the Berezniki-4 mine.

Uralkali expresses its sincere condolences to the family of the deceased employee. The Company will provide financial assistance to the family.

Stanislav Seleznev, Health, Safety and Environment Director of Uralkali, commented:
"In line with our usual practices, this accident will be thoroughly investigated and analysed. Occupational health and safety remains a key priority for Uralkali. The Company carries out a range of activities to prevent accidents. As a result, the number of fatalities has significantly declined in the last few years. Over the past five years, the number of accidents, including fatalities, has more than halved compared to the previous five-year period.

All mining staff are insured against accidents. Insurance compensation in case of death in the workplace amounts to RUB 1 million. In addition, Uralkali pays out RUB 2 million in case of death in the workplace."

Uralkali is one of the world’s largest potash producers and exporters. The Company’s assets consist of 5 mines and 7 ore-treatment mills situated in the towns of Berezniki and Solikamsk (Perm Region, Russia). Uralkali employs ca.11,300 people (in the main production unit). Uralkali’s shares and GDRs are traded on the Moscow Exchange and London Stock Exchange, respectively.