WORKSAFE Victoria has warned companies and workers about the dangers of working in confined spaces after Depot Vic was convicted and fined $500,000 over a fatality.

Depot Vic was convicted and fined after an incident in August 2007 where a 42-year-old worker was overcome by chemical fumes and died in a large empty tank.

WorkSafe Victoria says its investigation found the worker had used a chemical to remove latex from inside the tank, resulting in a lethal concentration of the chemical within the tank.

The company, which cleans and repairs storage tanks for the chemical industry, pleaded guilty to failing to provide and maintain a safe workplace and of failing to properly train and instruct its employees.

According to WorkSafe Victoria, confined spaces like tanks, silos, drains or pits are high-risk, high-consequence environments, and risks are magnified where chemicals and gases are involved.

Safeguards include having, and using, systems of work which incorporate safe work procedures, appropriate atmospheric testing and personal protective equipment.