Rio Tinto has confirmed the death of a contractor following an incident at its SimFer mine site in Nzérékoré, Guinea, on Friday, August 22.

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In a statement, Chief Executive Jakob Stausholm expressed his condolences to those affected. “We extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues impacted by this tragic event as well as the wider community.

We will offer all the support we can at this very difficult time and a thorough investigation will take place together with the relevant authorities to establish the causes of this tragic incident,” he said.

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Incoming Chief Executive Simon Trott described the loss as devastating and reaffirmed the company’s focus on safety. “At Rio Tinto, the safety of every member of the workforce is our main priority.

It is devastating to lose a colleague in this way and I will be traveling to Guinea to spend time with our team there. We will continue to do everything we can to ensure the safest possible work environment where everyone goes home safely to their family after every shift,” he said.

Operations at the SimFer site have been suspended while investigations are carried out. The company has also put support measures in place for employees and contractors affected by the incident.