West Gate Tunnel worker dies in hospital
A worker injured building Victoria’s biggest road project to date, the West Gate Tunnel, has died in hospital following an industrial accident earlier this month.
The man was an engineer in his 50s and was part of piling works being done at a site in Footscray Road, Docklands, when he was hit on the head on June 14.
He was taken to the Royal Melbourne Hospital in a critical condition.
His life support was switched off on Sunday.
Roads Minister Luke Donnellan issued a statement of condolence on Sunday afternoon.
“Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the worker’s family, friends and workmates,” Mr Donnellan said.
“We will provide them with whatever support they need at this very difficult time.
“Safety is paramount at every workplace across Victoria – and a full investigation is being undertaken by the relevant authorities, including WorkSafe.”
The man was understood to be an engineer working for Wagstaff Piling.
The company was contracted by John Holland and CPB Contractors, the joint venture appointed by the Andrews government and Transurban to build the $6.7 billion West Gate Tunnel.
John Holland chief executive Joe Barr said the company would provide “all the support our employees need during this tragic time”.
“We are devastated to hear one of our colleagues, a subcontractor employee on the West Gate Tunnel project, passed away over the weekend following injuries obtained from an incident on site last week,” he said.
“Our hearts go out to his family and friends, and all of the team on the project. “
Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining and Energy Union secretary John Setka took to social media to offer his condolences, saying “no one should ever die at work”.
WorkSafe Victoria is investigating the death and has been contacted for comment.
Transurban CEO Scott Charlton offered “sincere condolences to the family and colleagues of a CPB John Holland Joint Venture subcontract employee”.
“We are working with the contractor to provide our full support and cooperation while investigations are completed,” Mr Charlton said.
Source: The Age