‘Seismic activity’ a factor in incident that killed 2 in Ontario mine
by Canadian Manufacturing Staff
First Nickel president Thomas Boehlert said seismic activity, falling material killed drillers
TORONTO—”Seismic activity” is believed to have been a factor in a mining accident near Sudbury, Ont., this week that killed two drillers, according to First Nickel Inc.
In a statement released following the incident, First Nickel president and CEO Thomas Boehlert said falling material at the company’s Lockerby Mine killed Marc Methe, 34, and Norm Bissaillon, 49, May 6.
Methe and Bissaillon worked for Taurus Drilling ULC, which was working in the mine on a contract with First Nickel.
Bissaillon had more than 20 years of mining experience, while Methe had worked with Taurus for about four years.
“We are profoundly saddened by this tragic accident that resulted in the deaths of two men and we extend our deepest condolences to their families, friends and colleagues,” Boehlert said in the statement.
“Safety is the top priority for the company and we take it very seriously. We are committed to a full and thorough investigation.”
The Ontario Ministry of Labour is investigating.
