The operation of the Ramu Nickel Processing Plan in Madang Province is still suspended.
Highlands Pacific Ltd in a notice to the Australia Securities Exchange and Port Moresby Stock Exchange said: “Operations at the Ramu Nickel process plant near Madang in PNG will be suspended for the duration of an investigation into the recent fatality of a plant worker.
“The length of the investigation, being conducted by the PNG Mineral Resources Authority and the Mines Inspectorate, remains uncertain.”
Highlands holds an 8.56% interest in the Ramu joint venture, which is majority owned and operated by Chinese group Metallurgical Corporation of China Ltd (MCC).
The fatality of a Chinese employee occurred on April 12, 2016, when a high pressure steam supply line ruptured at the Basamuk nickel refinery.
Two other PNG workers were injured and transported to hospital for treatment.
“MCC immediately halted operations at the plant, which remains on care and maintenance,” the statement read.
“One of the injured workers has since been released from hospital, and the other is recovering.
“MCC is providing full support to the family of the deceased worker and his injured colleagues.
“The plant shut down will effect nickel production in the current year, however the extent of the impact will not be known until the length of the shutdown is clarified and any required rectification work is completed.