Excerpt from the OH&S Canada magazine
A contractor was fined $15,000 for overloading the roof of a long-term care facility in Calgary, Alberta with building materials, causing it to collapse.
Canterbury Roofing Ltd. was convicted under the Alberta Safety Codes Act for creating an unsafe condition by not ensuring that the roof was able to withstand the load. It was issued the maximum fine for a first offence on October 14, 2012.
The incident took place in April of 2011 when a pallet of roofing materials weighing more than 1, 200 kilograms smashed down through the ceiling of the home’s dining room where kitchen staff were serving about 15 elderly residents, most of them in wheelchairs, notes a statement from the city. No one was injured.
My opinion
REALLY! $15,000 fine? REALLY! This was a terrible ‘Near-Miss’ and the fine was only $15,000. Why not ask them to continue so it may happen again? I wonder if it interrupted the meal? It was not such a big deal so $15,000 seems a little steep, don’t you think?
Again, we see that the province of Alberta takes the path of least resistance and give slaps on the wrist as a deterrence and not substantial fines. I wonder if the fine can be paid over a 24 month time-frame? That would amount to the coffee money for the crew and they would have to go without. Pity!
Please ensure that your province takes your health and safety seriously. If they do not, challenge them to do so. If you ask for better you will get it. But the reverse is also true. If you accept the worst, well, you will get that too!
Remember – Alberta Health and Safety – An Oxymoron!
Remember – In Canada, “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 – Advanced Level
VP & Senior Trainer
HRS Group Inc.
World class!