Blog Post #455 – Mining Company Charged

Excerpt from the OH&S Canada magazine (March 2010)

A mining company in Newfoundland and Labrador faces nine health and safety charges following an incident in January of 2008.

Teck Resources Limited has been charged with failing, as an employer, to provide a safe workplace, ensure workers were made familiar of the hazards they may face on the job, provide sufficient ventilation, undertake regular inspections and provide the necessary training and instruction that would ensure worker health and safety, reports the Department of Government Services.

The incident occurred at the Duck Pond mine near Millertown, Newfoundland. After one shift was done, workers on the next shift went underground as instructed, but 18 were reported to have been exposed to toxic gases.

My opinion

All hazards in the workplace MUST be evaluated, assessed and controlled. That is the one responsibility an employer cannot get away from!

Ventilation is a key part of any control plan. If toxic gases, flammable gases or a lack of oxygen is a real possibility, please ensure you follow safety protocols, (if your company has them) to keep you from harm.

Good luck!

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’, ‘Mining Safety Awareness’ and ‘Standard Operating Procedures’. Contact Deborah toll free at 1-877-907-7744 or locally at 705-749-1259.

We can also be reached at 

‘Work’ and ‘Play’ safe.

Daniel L. Beal
CHSEP – Foundation Level
VP & Senior Trainer
HRS Group Inc.