BHP: Up to 2 weeks to restart Australia nickel mine

Published: 11 Jun 2009 18:06:59 PST

SYDNEY, June 12 - It could take up to two weeks before BHP Billiton Ltd/Plc's <BHP.AX><BLT.L> Perseverance nickel mine in Australia resumes full production rates after mining was halted due to a rock fall, a company spokeswoman said on Friday.

"We will start mining when it is safe to do so," the spokeswoman said in an email.

"It is likely some areas will be safe to mine within 24 hours. It may take up to two weeks before it is safe to reach full production in areas near the rock fall," she said.