Codelco announced that the independent investigation into the accident at its El Teniente Division on July 31 is proceeding according to plan. The inquiry is being led by the International Expert Group, which includes Mark Cutifani, Vivianne Blanlot, and Eduardo Bartolomeo. In recent weeks, these experts have held meetings and interviews with both division executives and corporate leaders.
The group’s task is to thoroughly assess technical, operational, human, cultural, and organizational factors that affect operational safety. Their objective is to find areas for improvement and recommend actions to enhance preventative management across Codelco.
Claudio Sougarret, General Manager of El Teniente, conducted a safety review with more than 200 operations supervisors. The meeting focused on strengthening controls over critical risks, especially those related to roads and driving within the operation. According to Codelco, this session was intended to reinforce the company’s commitment to protecting lives and health.
Operational activities continued under the Safe and Gradual Restart of Operations Plan. On average during the week in question, there were 11,856 workers assigned to shifts A and C; of these workers, 3,540 entered the mine itself. During this period, 81,000 tons of ore were processed at the Colón plant while 10,600 tons went to the Sewell plant. The Concentrator Plant continued functioning with both SAG 1 and SAG 2 lines active.
Codelco also stated it remains dedicated to transparency and cooperation with regulatory authorities. Out of 85 official requests from regulators regarding the incident, 60 have been answered so far; responses to the remaining requests are underway within set deadlines. The company also continues providing information and support services for families of deceased workers.
“The Corporation reiterates that safety is a non-negotiable value and that the various investigations being carried out regarding the accident at El Teniente will be fundamental to strengthening the preventive culture, and guaranteeing safe and sustainable operations in all its divisions,” said a statement from Codelco.
