BHP Billiton Nickel West regrets to advise that an incident occurred on 11 April 2010 at approximately 9.30am at its Leinster operation, resulting in the death of an employee. Details of the accident are still being established and an investigation is underway.

The onsite emergency team was activated and external emergency services attended the scene.  BHP Billiton Nickel West is working closely with the Department of Mines and Petroleum and Western Australia Police in relation to this tragic event.

The employee's family has been notified and operations at Nickel West Leinster are currently suspended. The company is offering assistance and support to the employee's family and those affected.

Our immediate thoughts are with the employee's family, friends and colleagues at this difficult time.