Chilean Mine Collapse Communication Paper

Chilean Mine Collapse Communication Paper

On August 6th, 2010, workers in the San Jose copper mine were trapped about 1100 feet below ground by a disastrous mine collapse. When the mine collapsed, the outcome of the miners was not known.

The point of this paper is to show how a company should communicate information regarding the trapped miners; to its employees; as well as, how it communicates the information over to the families of the trapped miners. In a critical situation such as this, the mining company must have very rapid communications with its employees and family members. By responding quickly, the company can show that they are in control, and show the victims families that everything possible is being done to assure the safe rescue of their loved ones. This will show employees and the trapped miners' family members that the rescue of the trapped miners is the main concern.

Communication to internal employees and the family will have to be different, and will have to be approached using communication targeted to each specific group. Regardless, all communication must be able to fill internal employees and the victims family's with confidence, and raise hope for a successful rescue operation.

Communication to both internal employees and the miners' families are important, but communications that are sent out to the family should be the main focus. The information that is being delivered needs to show that the miners' are being kept as safe as possible, and that their wellbeing, and rescue is the priority.

The company must have a clear understanding of the current status of the miners, before a message to the family can be delivered. The company needs to find out about the condition of the trapped miners, and find out which family members need to be contacted.

In the message that the company sends out to the family; they need to let the families know that they are doing as much as possible to get their family members out. They will also need to let them know that they are working diligently to keep everyone safe. The message needs to let the families know about the health and condition of their loved ones. Information on where the miners are trapped, and plans for their rescue should be conveyed.

The company should also set up a telephone number where family members can call and get updated information, and counseling resources if needed. Once family members get information; they are going to become more emotional and are going to be very distraught. Having counselors on hand would be a very effective way that they could help the trapped miners' family's deal with the crisis on hand.

The communication methods that would be used to address the company employees should be by inter-office memos, and e-mail. Communicating this way would allow the employees to understand what is going on with the trapped miners, learn about company policy, and stay up to date with details on the planning of the rescue for the trapped miners. If any changes are made, emails can be sent out quickly. This ensures that employees are up to the date with information regarding their co-workers. These memo's and e-mails should also include information on how employees can get counseling assistance if needed, as well.

Relaying important information on the issue of the trapped miners, needs to be updated quickly, and should be very sensitive. As there are many emotions and different thoughts flowing through people's

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