In February 2019, a fixed conveyor stacker collapsed during normal operation. Other than the temperature reaching 47°C, there were no extreme weather events at the time nor any abnormal operational loads. It was not running at full capacity at the time of failure although it had run close to its limit earlier in the day.
The failure has halted use of the stockpile and subsequent processing and production. It has also created a hazardous environment for demolition of the stacker.
There were no personnel in the vicinity at the time of the failure.
Direct causes
The structural integrity of critical members had deteriorated substantially due to corrosion.
Contributory causes
- Inadequate inspection and maintenance of the structural members.
- Failure to remove product build-up on structural members.
- Failure to provide access to inspect all parts of the structure.