Mining giant Sibanye-Stillwater has confirmed that all 260 employees trapped underground following a shaft incident at its Kloof 7 sub-shaft on 22 May 2025 have been accounted for, are safe, and are expected to be brought to surface by midday today.
The incident occurred when the rock winder skip door opened at the loading point on level 39, impacting levels 40 and 41 and causing some damage at level 35. According to the company, safety procedures were immediately activated, and damage at level 35 has since been secured.
“We are actively implementing our safety and shaft examination procedures. Once these are completed, we will begin hoisting employees to surface,” the company said in an official statement. It added that all underground workers had been provided with food and are in good condition.
In line with safety-first protocols, Sibanye-Stillwater opted to keep employees at the sub-shaft station rather than have them walk long distances to the surface, following a detailed risk assessment. The controlled hoisting process is expected to be completed around midday today.
The company has noted no injuries resulting from the incident and commended the rapid response of its onsite safety teams.
Sibanye-Stillwater (JSE: SSW and NYSE: SBSW) is one of the world’s leading producers of platinum group metals (PGMs) and gold, and has a diversified portfolio that includes battery metals and recycling operations across five continents. The group has also made significant strides in mine tailings retreatment and circular economy investments.
As investigations continue into the root cause of the shaft incident, Sibanye-Stillwater reiterated its unwavering commitment to safety and responsible mining operations.
