Gas explosion claims 12 at Gold Fields’ Beatrix

Denver — A methane explosion has killed 12 people at the Beatrix gold mine, 175 miles southwest of Johannesburg, in South Africa’s Free State.

The accident occurred on May 8 after an underground fan broke down, allowing the buildup of methane gas, says operator Gold Fields (GOLD-Q).

This was the second fatal explosion in one year at the mine. In 2000, a similar methane gas explosion killed seven people.

South African mine inspectors have halted operation at two of the mine’s three shafts to investigate the accident.

Mavis Hermanus, South Africa’s chief mine inspector, says the operation has had trouble maintaining ventilation standards. “At best, maintenance of operating standard can be described as inconsistent,” Hermanus says.

A preliminary report is expected by May 18, at which time the mine will resume full operation.

Beatrix contributes 500,000 oz. gold annually to Gold Fields. At this point, the company has not said if the incident will affect production.