Eskom has confirmed the death of an employee following a boiler explosion at the Lethabo power station.
“Eskom is in the process of investigating a major incident that took place on Unit 5 of the Lethabo power station. Sadly, one employee is deceased while a second has been rushed to hospital with serious injuries,” said the power utility.
The incident took place on Wednesday at the utility’s Free State plant.
Eskom conveyed its condolences to the family and friends of the deceased worker.
“Our condolences go out to the family and friends and we pray for the recovery of our injured colleague. Emergency response teams have been activated and members of the South African Police Service are on site. The Department of Labour has been notified.”
Meanwhile, as a result of the rupture of a main steam pipe, the unit is not operational while operations continue on the other units.
The station comprises six 618MW production units. A Production Unit consists of one boiler, a turbine and generator.
Furthermore, an Eskom customer network centre in Orange Farm was evacuated earlier on Wednesday following protests. Buildings and vehicles were damaged in the protests.
“Protestors were against audits being done on electrical installations and the removal of illegal connection,” said Eskom spokesperson Khulu Phasiwe in a tweet.
The power utility has experienced similar protests in other parts of Gauteng, including Diepsloot and Protea Glen. – SAnews.gov.za
