Underground smoke odour forces work stoppage at Vale's Coleman Mine

A spokesperson for Vale confirms there is currently a work stoppage at Coleman Mine due to a smoke odour underground.

According to an email this morning, mine rescue was sent in on Wednesday night to investigateandmake sure there was no fire underground.

Officials thinkthe source of the smell may becoming from the neighbouring Levack Mine, which is owned by KGHM.

"We are currently working through this issue with our employees, KGHM and the[Ministry of Labour]," DanicaPagnutti, Valespokesperson, said in an email.

"Shifts were cancelled last night and day shift was also cancelled today," she continued in a follow-up. "Workers will return to the workplace once the [Ministry of Labour]orders have been addressed."

Stop work orders

The Ministry of Labour said in an email it was notified on Wednesday of a work refusal by employeesat Coleman Mine, who complained of a smoky smell.

On Thursday, an MOL inspector determined there many be a hazard to workers at Coleman, though it was believed at that point that the smellwas "likely emanating from the heated area at theLevackMine."

A total of 12 orders were issued, including sixstop work orders.

Vale said approximately 500 employees work at Coleman Mine.