Initial Report from the OH&S Canada magazine (Winter 2023)
A worker at New Brunswick Power was killed on the job on Jan. 17, 2023 according to the utility.
“Last night, an incident involving two N.B. Power powerline technicians conducting power restoration work in the Moncton area resulted in a fatality and injury to a second powerline technician,” the company said in a statement.
“The N.B. Power family sends our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of our colleague during this difficult time and out thoughts are with our colleague in hospital.”
It said that “safety is at the heart of everything we do” and that losing a team member was devastating to “our entire N.B. Power family.”
It said it is co-operating fully in the investigation with WorkSafeNB and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. (RCMP)
“As the situation is under investigation, no further details are available at this time,” it said.
Follow Up Report
Details of the Incident:
- Two NB Power line workers fell from a pole in a wooded area near Albert Mines Road in Fundy Albert.
- Colin Hume died in the incident, and another worker was injured.
- The incident happened during restoration efforts after a significant ice storm.
- The workers were clearing ice from power lines when the accident occurred.
NB Power’s Response:
- NB Power is facing charges under the Occupational Health and Safety Act related to the incident.
- The charges include failing to provide necessary instruction and training, failing to take reasonable precautions, failing to prepare a transportation plan for injured workers, and failing to provide a first aid kit.
- The utility is expected to stand trial in 2026.
- NB Power stated that they are cooperating with WorkSafeNB’s investigation and working to prevent future incidents.
- NB Power is also focused on supporting the affected employees and their families.
Further Information:
- The incident occurred in Curryville, New Brunswick, a community southeast of Moncton.
- The charges were laid after an 18-month investigation by WorkSafeNB.
- The three-week trial is scheduled to begin on March 16, 2026.
I will keep abreast of any further reports and will attempt to follow the trial.
Terrible when a worker is killed, especially on the job. The effect it has on the families, both the employee’s and the internal business family, is crippling to say the least.
As the head of HRS Group Inc. I would like to send our condolences to the family of Colin Hume as well as the 2nd worker and his/her family.
HRS Group Inc. has a great team that can help you with all your health and safety needs including ‘Due Diligence’.
Contact Deborah toll free at 1-877-907-7744 or locally at 705-749-1259.
We can also be reached at
Ensure your workplace is a safe place.
Remember – In Ontario, “ALL Accidents are Preventable”
‘Work’ and ‘Play’ safe.
Daniel L. Beal
CHSEP – Advanced Level
CEO & Senior Trainer
HRS Group Inc.