The state’s workplace safety regulator has launched an investigation into the death of a 71-year-old roof plumber in Malaga.
The state’s workplace safety regulator has launched an investigation into the death of a 71-year-old roof plumber in Malaga.
In a statement, WorkSafe confirmed it was investigating the work-related death that happened yesterday.
The man was reportedly working on the roof of a vacant factory unit when he fell about five metres through the metal roof, WorkSafe said.
“WorkSafe investigators examine the circumstances of incidents with a view to ensuring compliance and preventing future incidents of a similar nature,” the regulator said in its statement.
WorkSafe Commissioner Sally North said this was a tragic incident and relayed her sincere condolences to the man’s family and friends.
Echoing WorkSafe comments, Construction Forestry and Maritime Employees Union state secretary Mick Buchan said the union sent its heartfelt condolences to the family and workmates of the worker.
“This is the second workplace fatality this month,” Mr Buchan said.
“Having campaigned specifically for awareness around the risks of working at heights and fall prevention in October, we have now witnessed the tragedy of another worker losing his life under those very circumstances.”
Mr Buchan said workers were more than just numbers.
“We need to impose and uphold rigorous standards around safety on site and in the workplace,” he said.
“There is no margin for error in this industry, and there is nothing more important than the safety and wellbeing of those working at the coalface.
“Here we are with another fatality that was entirely preventable and should never have happened.”
Earlier this month, WorkSafe started investigating the death of a man who worked on an offramp on the Mitchell Freeway.
The man was reportedly struck by a fallen piece of equipment.
