Fresh investigation launched following death of bodybuilder Giuliano Pirone, who was found unconscious in a Perth gym

WorkSafe has launched an investigation into the death of a Perth bodybuilder who spent 15 hours collapsed in a gym shower before he was discovered.

Giuliano Pirone collapsed in a shower cubicle of a 24-hour gym in Perth on August 20.

It took 15 hours for Mr Pirone to be discovered under cold running water, with emergency services having pinged his phone after his family reported him missing when he failed to return home from work.

The 33-year-old had been training for an upcoming bodybuilder competition.

He was rushed to Joondalup Hospital in Perth’s north, however he died weeks later in early September.

WorkSafe has now confirmed an investigation is underway into Mr Pirone’s death.

It’s understood while Mr Pirone didn’t work at the gym, it’s considered a workplace nonetheless, with the duty of care extending to everyone within the workplace.

Mr Pirone’s mother Daniela earlier called for a coronial inquest into his death, asking what protocols had been followed the night her son collapsed.

“If he was found earlier, he would still be here,” she told ABC Radio Perth.

Ms Pirone described her son as being “full of life” and having no fear while “living life to the full”, but became emotional recalling how her son never regained consciousness while recovering in hospital.

“He never tightened my hand, or spoke to me again,” Ms Pirone said

“I looked into his eyes, he probably didn’t see me.

“I hope he heard and saw me … at least I had his warm hand on my face.”

The gym Mr Pirone was a member of earlier issued a statement extending their thoughts and prayers to his family “at this difficult time” and their “deepest sympathies” after learning he had passed away.

“We have been in contact with those close to Giuliano and have given them time and space,” the gym’s statement continued.

“We will continue to engage with the family to provide whatever support we can if they require it.

“Since the date of the incident, we have provided and will continue to provide all necessary access and information to emergency services to assist them in their efforts if required.”

The gym’s statement continued by saying they remain committed to “maintaining a safe, secure and accessible environment”.

“We pride ourselves on fostering a supportive community environment for our staff, our members, and all of our external relationships,” the statement read.