“We want to assure the affected employees, friends and families that we are conducting a thorough investigation and are committed to taking appropriate action.”

The mining and energy union called on the owners to demonstrate that they could operate the site safely.

The mine is owned by QCoal and JFE Steel, a joint venture.

“As for the future of QCoal, we believe their mining permit license should be revoked unless they can demonstrate they can operate safely,” the union said in a statement.

QCoal was also called upon to ensure workers could return home and provide them with support, including full pay.

Macmahon has been awarded the mining lease in Byerwen since its inception in 2017.

It was said that the site’s emergency response team had been activated and that counseling was available for workers.

“Our focus is on providing support to family, friends and colleagues. We are committed to thoroughly investigating this incident,” the statement said.

Emergency services were called to the mine at around 1:00 p.m. on Thursday afternoon, where they found a dead body on the spot.

It was the second fatal accident after father of five Mr Schloss was killed in an incident involving a crane on August 3.

Isaac Regional Council Mayor Kelly Vea Vea said: “For the second time in recent weeks, our thoughts are with the family of a worker who tragically lost his life at the Byerwen mine.

“Once again we are reminded of the risks workers in our region are taking and we stand together, united in our grief.

“There will come a time when we will have to ask questions, but for now we grieve with the family, friends and colleagues.”

MONKEY