Credit: IKEA
A man has died in a workplace incident at an IKEA store, which recently opened in July in Calcot, Reading.
The store was closed yesterday (19 October) after a “contractor died in a workplace incident” overnight. Reports say that the man was undertaking work on a hydraulic goods lift in the loading bay at the back of the store.
The store has now reopened.
Police, fire and ambulance services were all called to the 45,000sqft at around 2.30am after the night-time incident.
On behalf of IKEA Javier Quinones Ikea UK and Ireland deputy retail manager said: “We are very saddened to confirm that this morning a contractor died in an incident on our site in Reading”.
Adding: “The safety and security of everyone on our premises is always our highest priority and we are now supporting the Thames Valley Police with their investigation.
“The store will remain closed until further notice. Our thoughts are with the individual’s family at this time.”
A police spokesman said officers were called to the Pincents Lane store by the ambulance service.
“We attended the scene where sadly a man had died,” said the spokesman, who added that no arrests have been made.
“Officers remain at the site while an investigation is carried out.”
The Reading Chronicle has reported that the Health and Safety executive has confirmed because of the nature of the incident they won’t be involved in the investigation.
A spokesperson said: “That will be dealt with by the local authority. If we get asked to assist the authorities and we will oblige.”
