"Chile Mine Regulator Investigates Worker Death at Escondida", 11 October 2025

...Chile's mining regulator Sernageomin has launched an investigation into a worker fatality at the Escondida copper mine. The incident, which occurred on Thursday, October 9, 2025, involved a contractor who was working as a crane operator at the facility. Despite the tragedy, mining operations have reportedly continued without interruption, according to sources familiar with the situation.

BHP, which operates the Escondida mine, confirmed the contractor's death in an official statement...Detailed circumstances surrounding the fatality have not yet been disclosed by either the company or regulatory authorities.

The fatal incident took place during regular operations at Escondida, triggering an immediate regulatory response...

While specific details about the crane operation that led to the fatality remain under investigation, the incident highlights the ongoing safety preparation insights faced by mining operations, even at facilities operated by major global companies with established safety protocols.

The deceased worker was a contractor employed by Workmate, a Chilean construction firm that provides specialized services to mining operations throughout the country. As a crane operator, the worker would have been responsible for heavy lifting operations within the mine complex, a position that carries inherent risks despite extensive safety training...

The Escondida fatality occurs amid heightened scrutiny of mining safety in Chile following the July 2025 collapse at Codelco's El Teniente mine that killed six workers...