Men killed in shipping container accident crushed by 'several tonnes' of shelving

Police and WorkCover NSW are still investigating the deaths of two men, killed after a shipping container in Sydney's west today.

Three men were trapped by tonnes of fallen timber inside a shipping container in Wetherill Park at about 11.15am.

Two of the men died at the scene, while one was taken to Liverpool Hospital.

The surviving victim is believed to have been struck by the shelving while standing at the entrance of the container, but managed to pull himself free.

The man did not suffer serious injuries during the incident.

Authorities have praised the colleagues of the workers.

NSW Fire and Rescue Inspector Lambert said workers had raced to help.

"The actions of the surrounding workers were extremely brave under the circumstances," he said.

"They placed their own lives in very imminent danger to save these trapped men.

"That was an absolutely magnificent action."