Impala Platinum has confirmed today (18th September) that operations have resumed at the number 14 shaft at its section of the Rustenburg mine.

The world's second-largest platinum producer temporarily closed down the shaft at the South African facility after a methane explosion occurred last week.

However, spokesman Jon Andrews announced that the authorities have now given the company the green light to restart work following the completion of an investigation.

"Operations are now running normally," he told Reuters.

Impala initially revealed that one worker had died in the explosion, with a further two employees suffering injuries.

However, it has now been confirmed that one of the men, drill operator Motinaye Molefe, has died, while the other, Vabohlongo Baatjie, remains critically ill in hospital.

"At this stage the cause of the explosion has not yet been determined," added a statement from the company.

"No further information can be released by the company until the investigation has been completed."

Impala currently employees about 55,000 people including contractors, with 48,000 based in South Africa and 7,000 tied to its operations in Zimbabwe.

Sources:

SAfrica's Implats resumes ops at mine shaft (18/09/09)

14 Shaft - methane explosion (update) (18/09/09)

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