Man dies in BHP Olympic Dam mine rock fall

A man has died after a rock fall at BHP Billiton's Olympic Dam underground copper mine in South Australia.

Police say the 47-year-old man from Tumby Bay died at the scene on Tuesday morning.

SafeWork SA has been advised and police will prepare a report for the coroner.

BHP said it was "deeply saddened" by the man's death and was working closely with authorities.

"We extend our deepest condolences and support to our colleagues family and friends, as well as our other employees and contractors at this difficult time," the company said in a statement.

SafeWork SA executive director Bryan Russell said works within the site had been suspended and the regulator had launched an investigation into the accident.

Mr Russell said there would be no further information released as details gathered in the investigation could be used as evidence in legal proceedings.