Worker dies at WA copper mine

A machine operator has died while transporting rock and ore at a copper mine in Western Australia's Pilbara region.

The incident happened at Aditya Birla Minerals' Nifty mine, about 350km east of Port Hedland late on Monday afternoon.

WA Department of Mines and Petroleum inspectors were due to arrive at the site on Tuesday to start investigations.

The company has temporarily suspended mining operations.

Chief executive Neel Patnaik said he was saddened by the news and the thoughts of the company were with the victim's family.