Fatal workplace accident at the Aurubis site in Hamburg  

Yesterday at around 10:45 p.m., a serious workplace accident occurred at the Aurubis site in Hamburg, in the secondary smelter (RWN), 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. Another employee suffered minor injuries. Emergency services and the Plant Fire Department were deployed immediately.

The fire was quickly brought under control by the Plant Fire Department. There was no danger to neighbors or the environment at any time. The affected production area was returned to safe operating conditions.

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 has been secured.

Aurubis is deeply saddened 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."