Chilean Mine Collapse of 2010

The Chilean Mine Collapse of 2010 was a tragic disaster that ended up with a positive outcome. “On Aug. 5, 2010, a gold and copper mine near the northern city of Copiapo, Chile caved in, trapping 33 miners in a chamber about 2,300 feet below the surface.” (New York Times 2011). The trapped miners got communication up through a small bore hole that they were alive and OK for the time being. Rescue efforts soon commenced and “On October 13, 2010, 33 miners who had been trapped underground for more than two months returned to the surface after a successful rescue operation that inspired Chile and riveted the world.” (New York Times 2011). All the miners involved in the collapse came out unharmed physically though many are facing emotional distress to this day.

When faced with providing communication on the tragedy to the families, employees and world all together there are many things to think about when deciding the best way to communicate the facts. When trying to communicate the facts and what is to happen to the miners it is important to show empathy and sympathy for their situation. The families loved one is trapped and they are scared and worried for their loved one’s safety. You must keep that in mind when communicating to them. I drafted a communication that I would have send to the families probably through the communication channel of video or face-to-face. You want to be personable and there to answer their questions in order to help set them at ease a bit. You also want to show that you understand they are worried and that you are also worried for the safety of the miners as well. Here are the drafted words I wrote to present to the families. Like I said this would be done face-to-face or by video message for the families to see.

As we face this tragedy together and worry for the safety of all those involved, we feel the need to present you, the families, with all the information we have on the situation and help to answer any questions you...