The contractor was performing a maintenance operation in Alunorte’s clarification area when he suddenly felt unwell. He was immediately treated by Alunorte’s emergency team onsite before being taken by ambulance to a hospital in Barcarena, where he later was confirmed dead.

An investigation has been initiated to further determine the cause of death and root cause of the incident. Care and support is being provided to the family.

“I am deeply saddened to learn of the unfortunate passing of a contractor at our Alunorte plant. Our heartfelt condolences go to the family and the affected colleagues," says President and CEO, Hilde Merete Aasheim.

Hydro Alunorte is the largest alumina refinery in the world outside of China. The plant is located in the city of Barcarena, in the Pará state, in northern Brazil. It has a yearly capacity of 6.3 million tonnes of alumina production, with around 8,000 Hydro employees and third party contractors working at the plant.