Glencore’s (LON:GLEN) Kazzinc plant, a zinc-gold production facility in Kazakhstan, reported an explosion at a dust collection unit on Tuesday 5 May, resulting in two deaths and five injuries.
Kazzinc confirmed the incident, stating that “an incident occurred earlier today at the zinc smelter of the Ust-Kamenogorsk Metallurgical Complex”.
“The incident has tragically resulted in the death of two individuals, with one person critically injured and four others having sustained light injuries.”
The company notes that emergency services responded promptly to the scene, and injured individuals are receiving medical care.
“The situation is currently contained with efforts focused on treating the injured personnel.”
Kazzinc also confirms that local authorities have conducted air quality testing and confirm that there has been no impact on the environment by the incident.
“Our thoughts are with the family, friends, and colleagues of the individuals affected by the incident. The operation will be providing support to those involved and to our employees during this difficult time.”
Kazzinc is a non-ferrous metals company in Kazakhstan and is a fully integrated zinc producer, with additional credits in copper, precious metals, and lead. The company was established in 1997, with Glencore International acting as general investor.
Write to Amy Rotman at Mining.com.au
Images: Kazzinc
