TWO men have been found dead inside a tank in north Queensland in what is believed to be a tragic workplace accident.

A 52-year-old man and 48-year-old man died while cleaning a molasses tank at a Sarina transport business on Saturday, according to Queensland Police.

Police were notified of the incident off Sarina Beach Rd about 8.30pm yesterday and on arrival found the men deceased, the Daily Mercury reports.

Initial investigations suggest the men were affected by fumes, a police media spokesman said.

Workplace Health and Safety Queensland have investigators at the site this morning.

A WHSQ spokesman said emergency services were contacted after water was seen coming from the tank.

The vehicle involved was a prime mover with a transport tank.

The spokesman said the two men worked for the transport company.

Sarina councillor Martin Bella said the death of two men would “knock” the small community.

Cr Bella said the family that owned the business - Vella Haulage Sarina - was well known to the community.

“Everyone knows them, I went to school with the family.”

Cr Bella also said it wasn’t just a hit for the family but also for those that work for the company.

“They are local employers as well so this will affect the whole community.”