Contractor worker dies Escondida | BHP

Luis David Henríquez, a contractor for Workmate, died during loading operations at Minera Escondida | BHP in Antofagasta. Authorities and the company have launched investigations to determine the cause of the accident.

A worker identified as Luis David Henríquez Henríquez, employed by the contractor Workmate, died on Thursday afternoon, October 9, while performing duties at Minera Escondida | BHP, the world’s largest copper mine.
The incident occurred in the Patio 900 area during loading operations and is now under investigation by both the company and the relevant authorities.

Circumstances of the Accident

According to preliminary reports, the accident took place when a flatbed truck operator was waiting for a forklift operator to complete segregation tasks in the area. Upon approaching, the driver found the forklift operator unconscious on the ground with a head injury.
Despite immediate assistance efforts, the worker — the only person involved in the event — died at the scene.

The incident was promptly reported to authorities and to the main operator, Minera Escondida.
Henríquez worked for Workmate, an industrial services company that supports several mining operations across Chile, operating under the mine’s Integrated Operations Management and WYL Superintendency.

Statement from Minera Escondida | BHP

In an official statement, Minera Escondida | BHP expressed deep sorrow over the worker’s death and confirmed the launch of internal and external investigations to determine the causes of the accident.

“We regret to inform the sensitive passing of a worker from one of our contracting companies, which occurred on Thursday, October 9, at our site,” the company said.

“Authorities are currently conducting the necessary procedures. In parallel, we have initiated an internal investigation, the results of which will be shared in due course.

As the Escondida team, we extend our sincere condolences to the worker’s family, loved ones, and all our colleagues.”

Sernageomin Investigation

Chile’s National Geology and Mining Service (Sernageomin) confirmed on Friday that it has opened a formal investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the accident and to verify compliance with established safety protocols.

Sources close to the investigation indicated that mining operations continued as normal after the incident, while the affected area was cordoned off to allow for technical inspections and evidence collection.