Kloof is an intermediate to ultra-deep level gold mine, situated in the West Wits Line of the Witwatersrand Basin, near the towns of Randfontein and Westonaria, approximately 60km west of Johannesburg.
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Mining company Sibanye-Stillwater has confirmed the deaths of two employees following a tragic incident at its Kloof 8 shaft near Glenharvie.
Kloof is an intermediate to ultra-deep level gold mine, situated in the West Wits Line of the Witwatersrand Basin, near the towns of Randfontein and Westonaria, approximately 60km west of Johannesburg.
Sibanye-Stillwater on Monday said the fatal accident occurred on Sunday during a routine, scheduled shaft inspection at the K8/Masimthembe shaft.
According to preliminary details, an inspection platform detached from the main winder conveyance while preparations for the inspection were underway. The platform then descended uncontrollably down the shaft, resulting in fatal injuries to the two workers.
Sibanye-Stillwater said it has launched a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident, in line with regulatory requirements. Authorities, including the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources and organised labour representatives, have been notified.
Operations at the affected shaft have been suspended while investigations continue, although the company confirmed that no damage was caused to the shaft infrastructure.
The mining group expressed its condolences to the families and colleagues of the deceased, describing the incident as deeply tragic.
“The family and colleagues of the deceased are receiving counselling, and the family will be provided with support during this difficult time,” the company said, adding that further details are expected once investigations are concluded.
The incident highlights ongoing safety challenges in South Africa’s mining sector, where routine operations can still pose significant risks despite improvements in safety standards over recent years.
According to the Minerals Council South Africa, the high incidence of fall of ground fatalities and injuries in mining are of concern, even though the total number of mining fatalities declined slightly to 41 in 2025 and the number of serious injuries fell by 12%.
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