Workers will be questioned after nearly half a dozen colleagues came into contact with hazardous material.
Authorities recently examined circumstances surrounding two employees, who became hospitalised plus a further three injured, at Alcoa Australia’s Pinjarra refinery.
Emergency services were called to the operation at 3:30pm on 14 November 2023. First responders discovered toxic chemicals at the scene that had already caused caustic burns. Two men in their 30s and 60s were transported to the Fiona Stanley Hospital for treatment. Another three suffered minor injuries.
“WorkSafe has required the site operator to hold the scene of the incident and inspectors will attend,” WorkSafe acting commissioner Sally North said according to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.
The proponent promised to fully cooperate and expressed sympathy for those impacted.
“The company is working with authorities and a full investigation will be undertaken,” a spokesperson said according to News Limited.
“Alcoa’s focus and thoughts are with the injured people and their families.”
The Western Australian Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety previously took action against the same proponent for a different caustic incident nearly two years prior.
At the time two people were injured and State Mines, Petroleum and Industrial Relations Minister Bill Johnston urged Alcoa to take it “very seriously”.
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