Chilean Labor Directorate Suspends Operations at Codelco El Teniente Following Fatalities
The Dirección del Trabajo suspended operations at the Codelco División El Teniente mine after two workers died in a workplace accident, radioagricultura.cl reported. Labor authorities ordered the stoppage to remain in effect until the state-owned copper producer and its contractors prove they meet mandatory safety conditions.
Inspections Target Contractor AURA and Codelco Operations
Labor Director David Oddó stated that inspectors examined both the contractor firm AURA and Codelco División El Teniente regarding health, hygiene, and occupational safety. The inspection team arrived at the mining faena on Sunday and remained on site past midnight to gather evidence and request documentation from the involved companies.
Codelco, AURA, and any subcontractors must submit the requested records within four business days. Oddó noted that the Labor Directorate has previously conducted more than 200 inspections of the AURA contractor and over 200 inspections at Codelco División El Teniente concerning health, hygiene, and safety compliance.
Preventive Plans and Working Conditions
Alongside the active investigation, the Labor Directorate is developing a prevention plan that combines worker training, regulatory oversight, and collaboration among labor unions and employers. Oddó emphasized that regulatory enforcement must look beyond issuing fines to actively anticipate risks in high-accident sectors.
The temporary suspension will not lift until the companies officially verify that their work sites satisfy all required safety standards. Oddó also extended condolences to the families and colleagues of the deceased workers.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Codelco El Teniente Suspension
When did labor inspectors arrive at the El Teniente mine?
The inspection team arrived at the faena on Sunday and stayed past midnight to collect background information and documentation.
How many days do the companies have to submit records?
Codelco, the contractor AURA, and any subcontractors have a maximum of four business days to deliver the required background materials to the Labor Directorate.
What conditions must be met to lift the work suspension?
Operations will remain suspended until the company officially demonstrates to the Labor Directorate that it meets all required safety conditions.
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