Sick Eskom workers blame food

Johannesburg - Eighty-three workers at the Medupi power station construction site in Lephalale fell ill on Thursday morning and had to receive treatment on site, power utility Eskom said.

"Of these, 26 had to be booked off after complaining of abdominal pains and nausea early this (Thursday) morning," Eskom said in a statement.

The remaining 57 employees reported back for duty during the day after being attended to medical personnel.

Although unconfirmed, employees believed the illness was possibly as a result of Wednesday's lunch that was served to about 7 500 employees - who received a free hot meal in terms of a project labour agreement.

"Safety and the well-being of our employees are of primary importance. Eskom has commissioned an urgent investigation into the circumstances."

- Sapa