Close to 300 workers employed by China Railway Seventh Group have downed tools following the death of a colleague in the workplace accident on Monday.

Thirty-five-year-old diesel mechanic Lazarus Hedimbi died after a pressure container exploded, striking him in the chest.

The workers seemed disheartened, and their morale was noticeably low. It was a typical Monday when Lazarus Hedimbi arrived for work, but his day tragically ended in a fatal accident. 

His colleagues spoke to NBC News, but for fear of possible victimisation, he opted not to speak on camera. They told the news team that a diesel pressure tank exploded and the tank nipple hit Hedimbi in the chest.

He died on his way to the hospital.

The workers are constructing the Western Bypass highway along the B1 Highway, among other major road networks.

They stopped work since the incident and say management declined their request for time off to mourn their colleague and to deal with the shock.

This request, according to them, was ignored, and they sought the intervention of the Minister of Works and Transport.

Veikko Nekundi arrived swiftly at the company's offices and held a meeting with management and union representatives.

Following the meeting, the workers were released for the remainder of the day to mourn their colleague.

"I expect all of us to extend our sympathy and empathy towards the family and friends, as well as to one another, in memory of our departed colleague. It is essential for us to recognise that a moment of sorrow should not be overshadowed by actions that do not promote harmony," said Nekundi.

He urged workers to raise workplace concerns through their shop stewards or directly with the National Union of Namibian Workers representatives so that issues can be addressed promptly.

Nekundi informed the gathered workers that the company has pledged financial assistance to the family of the deceased.

A memorial gathering is scheduled to take place at the company's offices tomorrow. 

Additionally, workers will deliberate on who will attend Hedimbi's funeral this weekend, with the company arranging transport for those attending.