Fatal Workplace Accident at the Aurubis Site in Hamburg  

Yesterday at around 10:45 p.m., a serious workplace accident occurred at the Aurubis plant site in Hamburg, in the Smelter Plant North, a downstream facility of primary copper production. A company employee was fatally injured in the incident.

During routine emptying operations of a ladle containing residues of molten material, a deflagration occurred. As a result, a forklift used for the emptying process caught fire. The employee who was inside the forklift sustained fatal injuries as a consequence. Another employee suffered minor injuries. Emergency services and the fire brigade were deployed immediately.

The fire was quickly brought under control by the fire brigade. At no time was there any danger to neighbors or the environment. The affected production area was brought into a safe operating condition.

The responsible authorities were informed in accordance with regulations. Aurubis is working closely with them to investigate the incident and its causes. As is customary in such cases, the police have initiated an investigation. The accident site is currently in a secured condition.

Aurubis is deeply affected by this tragic accident. “Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to the relatives and all those affected during these difficult hours,” said Dr. Toralf Haag, CEO of Aurubis AG. “We will conduct a full and detailed investigation of the accident in close cooperation with the authorities.