SafeWork SA investigation into tragic death of transport contractor at Coates Hire Roxby Downs

A local community has been rocked after the tragic workplace death of a Roxby Downs “transport contractor” at a site near the mine.

The transport contractor died at Coates, Roxby Downs. Picture: Google Maps

A SafeWork SA investigation has been launched following the tragic death of a 58-year-old “transport contractor” at a Roxby Downs business last week.

The local man died after an incident at Coates on Charlton Rd, just outside of the Olympic Dam mine site north of Roxby Downs, about 10am last Monday.

Coates CEO Murray Vitlich said the business – Australia’s largest equipment hire company with more than 1900 people across 145 nationwide branches – was assisting SafeWork with its ongoing investigation.

SafeWork SA is investigating a workplace death at Coates, Roxby Downs. Picture: Google Maps

“We sadly confirm that an incident occurred at our Roxby Downs site that has resulted in a transport contractor sustaining fatal injuries,” Mr Vitlich said.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the family, loved ones and colleagues of the worker for their loss. Those affected by the incident, including our staff on site, are receiving our full support.

“Out of respect for those affected, the ongoing investigation and limited information available at this time, we cannot provide any further details.”

A SafeWork SA spokesman previously informed The Advertiser the incident involved “an elevating work platform” at the business.

On Monday, they said they were “continuing to make enquiries” into the mans death.

Roxby Downs Council delined to comment.