The failure of a mechanical winch is believed to have played a “contributing factor” to a death at a Northern Territory gold mine.

The 47-year-old man was killed at the Tanami mine, about 450km northwest of Alice Springs, about 4pm on Wednesday.

Police were notified soon after and have launched inquiries into the incident alongside the Coronial Investigation Unit, Crime Scene Examination Unit and WorkSafe NT.

Initial investigations indicate a “potential failure of a winch occurred during a lift as a contributing factor to the incident”, according to WorkSafe.

The gold mine extends more than 1.7km underground and has been in operation since 1983, most recently under multinational gold mining corporation, Newmont.

“Newmont Corporation is deeply saddened to confirm that a member of our workforce has died following an incident at the Tanami mine site,” the company said.

The Tanami gold mine, about 450km northwest of Alice Springs.The Tanami gold mine, about 450km northwest of Alice Springs. Credit: John van Hasselt – Corbis/Sygma via Getty Images

“Our thoughts are with the individual’s family, friends and colleagues during this very difficult time.

“Emergency response procedures were immediately activated, and relevant authorities have been notified and are attending the site.

“Newmont will provide its full support to assist with the investigation into this tragic incident.”

Newmont also confirmed “all activities at the Tanami site have been suspended”.

A worker at the Tanami Gold Mine.A worker at the Tanami Gold Mine. Credit: John van Hasselt – Corbis/Sygma via Getty Images

“Further information will be provided when it is appropriate to do so,” it said.

“Safety remains our highest priority, and we are committed to supporting our people.”

The Australian Workers’ Union (AWU) has also called for Newmont and NT WorkSafe to conduct an “open and transparent investigation”.

“The AWU is in shock at news of this fatality,” AWU Queensland Secretary Stacey Schinnerl said.

“This is a tragic reminder that mine sites are dangerous places … (and) why the union always emphasises safety over production.

“Events like these send shockwaves through our entire national mining industry.

“Our thoughts are with the family, friends and colleagues of the worker who has tragically lost their life. Every worker should be able to go to work confident they will come home safe.

“This loss is unacceptable.”

Inquiries into the incident remain ongoing.