WORKSAFE has issued a warning about the dangers of working in confined spaces after a tank cleaning company was convicted and fined $500,000 following the death of a worker.
According to WorkSafe, Depot Vic, a company which cleans and repairs storage tanks for the chemical industry, pleaded guilty to failing to provide and maintain a safe workplace. It was also found guilty to failing to properly train and instruct its employees.
The Depot Vic employee was found dead inside a 25,000L tank after using a chemical to remove latex from inside the vessel.
WorkSafe’s investigation found the company’s training and application of appropriate safety standards was inadequate.
WorkSafe manufacturing, logistics and agriculture program director Ross Pilkington said confined spaces including tanks, silos drains and pits were high risk, high consequence environments.
“With the addition of chemicals and gases into these places, those risks are magnified,” Mr Pilkington said.
“Safeguards include having and using systems of work which incorporate safe work procedures, appropriate atmospheric testing and personal protective equipment.
“Developing hazard identification and risk assessment systems to control access such as a ‘confined space entry permit’ is a common approach.”
WorkSafe provides a range of materials aimed at people required to work in confined spaces.
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