Altona North death reinforces the dangers of confined space work

18 August 2007

WorkSafe is investigating the death of a 42-year-old Werribee man while working inside a steel tank at Altona North yesterday.

The tank was used for chemicals and was undergoing maintenance at a business in McArthurs Road, Altona North.

It is believed he was working alone before being found by workmates around 3pm.

WorkSafe’s investigation is at an early stage, but Executive Director, John Merritt, said the death confirmed the extreme danger of work in confined spaces.

“Limited means of entry and exit, poor ventilation and the presence of toxic gases and vapours all pose serious risks to workers in confined spaces.

“These are issues for people in agriculture (silos and water tanks), construction and manufacturing, warehousing, the water industry, even retail (refrigerated storerooms etc).

“It’s not uncommon for incidents to result in multiple fatalities because other workers who are unaware of the risks, or who are attempting a rescue, can also be overcome by toxic vapours or gases or submit to low oxygen levels.

“There is also a risk of a fire or explosion from the ignition of flammable materials or gases, suffocation or crushing after being engulfed by loose materials.

Yesterday’s incident was the 18^th work-related fatality reported to WorkSafe this year. There were 18 deaths at the same time last year.  

WorkSafe’s ‘Your health and safety guide to Confined spaces’ published in July can be found online at www.worksafe.vic.gov.au. Printed copies are available by calling 1800 136 089.