Fruit Grower Charged After Worker Found Dead in Shepparton Warehouse Cool Room

Incident Overview

The investigation identified alleged failures to implement adequate safety measures, including the absence of entry prohibitions and warning signage for the low-oxygenated environment.

The incident occurred at a fresh produce warehouse operated by Gvip Storage Pty Ltd in Shepparton. The exact time of discovery was not specified in available reports.

• Fatalities:
  • A 50-year-old man was found dead inside a controlled atmosphere cool room at a warehouse operated by Gvip Storage Pty Ltd in Shepparton, Victoria
• Injuries:
  • None reported.

• A 50-year-old man was found dead inside a controlled atmosphere cool room at a warehouse operated by Gvip Storage Pty Ltd in Shepparton, Victoria

A 50-year-old man was found dead inside a controlled atmosphere cool room at a warehouse operated by Gvip Storage Pty Ltd in Shepparton, Victoria. WorkSafe Victoria has investigated the incident and charged the company with workplace safety offences.

WorkSafe Victoria led the investigation into the incident. The investigation identified that Gvip Storage Pty Ltd failed to implement adequate safety measures to prevent entry into the low-oxygenated cool room, including the absence of entry prohibitions and clear warning signage.

WorkSafe Victoria is continuing its investigation into this incident. Any workers, contractors or persons with information about safety practices at the facility are encouraged to contact WorkSafe Victoria on 1800 136 089 or submit a report via worksafe.vic.gov.au.