NYSE- and TSX-listed Fortuna Silver Mines has voluntarily suspended operations for two weeks at its Caylloma mine, in Peru, following the sudden death of a 34-year-old contractor employee on July 5.
The cause of death has not yet been determined, but the individual had completed a health check, including a Covid-19 rapid diagnostic test, in accordance with the company’s health protocols. The employee tested negative for Covid-19.
An investigation has been initiated into the incident, and Fortuna reiterated its priority to safeguard the health and safety of its personnel and its local communities, and as a result, aligned with recent Peruvian government Sanitary Emergency provisions for Arequipa, the company has decided to voluntarily suspend operations for a period of two weeks at the Caylloma mine.
Fortuna said that it would use this time to, among other things, sanitise and disinfect the mine site.
A reduced task force will remain on site to safeguard critical infrastructure, care and maintenance, as well as environmental monitoring.
The company is initiating the demobilisation of its on-site personnel.