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Reported VIC Transport and logistics

Melbourne Man Loses Eye in Workplace Explosion, Calls for Better Insurance Support

Published Updated
Regulator

WorkSafe Victoria

Status

The incident has been reported publicly.

Investigated by

WorkSafe Victoria

Record summary

Date
Monday 20 November 2023
Location
Port Melbourne
Employer or operator
shipping container company
Type
Explosion involving uncleaned drum with flammable solvent
Deaths
None reported
Injured
1One contract worker with loss of eye, facial fractures, nerve damage, hearing loss
Regulator
WorkSafe Victoria

What happened

Incident Overview

In July 2023, a contract worker suffered catastrophic injuries in an explosion at a shipping container company in Port Melbourne, Victoria. The blast, caused by an uncleaned drum containing flammable solvent, resulted in the loss of his eye, multiple facial fractures, nerve damage, and hearing loss.

WorkSafe Victoria was notified and has investigated the incident. The worker is receiving legal representation and awaiting the outcome of the regulator’s investigation.

WorkSafe Victoria was notified and has investigated the incident. The worker is receiving legal representation and awaiting the outcome of the regulator’s investigation.

WorkSafe Victoria has investigated the incident. The investigation is examining the handling of hazardous materials and workplace safety protocols at the facility. The worker is represented by a legal team and is awaiting the regulator’s findings.

WorkSafe Victoria is investigating this incident. Any workers, contractors or witnesses with information about safety practices or hazardous material handling at the Port Melbourne facility are encouraged to contact WorkSafe Victoria on 1800 136 089 or submit a report via their online portal at worksafe.vic.gov.au.

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Carter Capner Law monitors workplace accidents, investigations and prosecutions across Australia to spotlight safety issues for workers.

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