Miner Anglo American settles 23 lung disease claims
Anglo American South Africa (AASA) has announced the settlement of 23 stand-alone silicosis claims, from the period 2004 to 2009 (release).
The miner says that it is one of a number of companies facing class action litigation that involve thousands of former mine workers. AASA denies any liability and will continue to defend against those separate class action proceedings.
Khanyisile Kweyama, executive director of Anglo American South Africa, said:
AASA believes that agreeing to settle this long-standing litigation is in the best interests of the plaintiffs, their families, AASA and its wider stakeholders. We continue to work with industry, government and civil society to tackle the many challenges of primary health care in South Africa. Our collective objective is to significantly improve the access and quality of care available to all South Africans as well as ensuring a healthy and safe working environment for all our employees.
Silicosis is an incurable lung disease brought about by the inhalation of large amounts of silica dust, usually after exposure for several years.