Griffin Mining has suspended operations at its Caijiaying mine in Hebei Province, China, while it investigates the death of an employee.

The AIM-listed company said it voluntarily suspended mining operations following the death of an employee of the mining contractor whilst underground at the Caijiaying mine on Saturday, October 17.

Griffin said it would conduct an internal investigation while the Chinese safety authorities carried out an external examination of the fatal incident, pursuant to Chinese safety regulations.

“Needless to say, the safety of the Caijiaying mine site remains a priority for all parties concerned. The company’s thoughts and concerns rest with the deceased and their families,” the company said in a statement.

“In the interim, sufficient stockpiles of ore remain available above ground to continue operating the processing facilities for a minimum of two months at the current throughput rates,” Griffin added.

Caijiaying is an operating zinc, gold, silver and lead mine, together with the camp comprising staff accommodation, recreational and mess facilities, located approximately 300km by road, northwest of Beijing.