Unions have labelled the death of a 45-year-old apprentice a “preventable tragedy”.

It’s the second fatal incident in six years at Hofmann Engineering’s Bassendean factory in Perth, where work continued today.

The man from Piara Waters, a first-year apprentice on a mid-life career change was wrapping a six-metre forging ring in plastic when it slipped and crushed him.

“This is a three-tonne bit of equipment that was put on the wrong place at the wrong time,” Australian Manufacturing Workers’ Union state secretary Steve McCartney said.

His upset colleagues returned today and were offered counselling.

The Korean father was granted permanent residency two years ago.

He recently switched to a trade after working as a chef.

“He’s got a young daughter of 10. He took this job on to spend more time with his family,” McCartney said.

Worksafe says it’s a concern a second death has occurred at the Bassendean site.

A 46-year-old man was crushed six years ago and the company was fined.

WA Premier Roger Cook said “Every employer has responsibility to keep their team safe”.

Last month Hofmann Engineering was awarded state government funds to bid for overseas projects.