Excerpt from the Government of Ontario’s ‘Newsroom’
Algoma Tubes Inc., a Yukon metal pipe manufacturer, was fined $55,000 for a violation of the Occupational Health and Safety Act after a worker was injured.
On December 17, 2008, at the company’s Sault St. Marie facility, a worker opened a door, slipped on a wet surface and fell to the ground. The worker suffered a fracture to the arm.
Algoma Tubes Inc. pleaded guilty to failing to ensure that the floor was kept free of hazards.
The fine was imposed by Justice of the Peace James Bubba. In addition to the fine, the court imposed a 25-per-cent victim fine surcharge, as required by the Provincial Offences Act. The surcharge is credited to a special provincial government fund to assist victims of crime.
My opinion
The law(s) in contravention:
Algoma Tubes Inc. was found guilty of a contravention of section 11 of the Ontario ‘Industrial’ regulation 851/90 which states,
“A floor or other surface used by any worker shall,
a) Be kept from obstructions, hazards and accumulations of refuse, snow and ice, and
b) Not have any finish or protective material on it that is likely to make the surface slippery.”
I guess this particular accident can be placed under the heading of ‘House Keeping’. Section 11 covers the floor obstructions and debris in around the floor level of the premise. It does not take one long to see that poor housekeeping can lead to serious or critical injuries.
All companies should have a proper housekeeping program and the health and safety coordinator needs to take an active role in its implementation. I would also suggest that the supervisor review daily, and the plant manager monthly, until the entire facility is aware of the changes in health and safety attitude and the entire facility is in compliance.
All changes have to come from the top. All levels of management MUST buy into the changes for it to be effective.
Remember — In Ontario, “ALL Accidents are Preventable”
HRS Group Inc. has a great team that can help you with all your health and safety needs including ‘Due Diligence’ and ‘Standard Operating Procedures’. Contact Deborah toll free at 1-877-907-7744 or locally at 705-749-1259.
‘Work’ and ‘Play’ safe.
Daniel L. Beal
CHSEP – Foundation Level
VP & Senior Trainer
HRS Group Inc.