Excerpt from the OH&S Canada magazine
Goldcorp Canada Ltd. was fined $350,000 on October 11, 2012 following the death of a worker who was run over and killed by a scoop tram at the company’s Hoyle Pond mine in Timmins, Ontario on March 10, 2011.
An investigation by the labour ministry found that although the company had a procedure to display signs and flashing lights while a worker is in the area, the procedure was not practiced in the location where the incident took place.
Goldcorp pleaded guilty to failing to ensure that a safety procedure was in place where mobile equipment was being used, workers were instructed in the procedure and that it was implemented through appropriate supervision.
My opinion
The mining regulations 854/90, cover all aspects of the mining sector. Mind you, the Ontario Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) covers responsibilities for employers, supervisors and workers. All parts of sections 25-28 inclusive need to be read and adhered to by all employers. Goldcorp should have had sets of written work procedures, incorporated safety into the process and safely supervised the work. Sections 25-27 of the Act would have covered all this. Section 28 would have covered the worker responsibilities which would have included quality training.
Ensure that your workplace is a safe place. Safety is not just a word but a frame of mind. Changing the mindset of an organization to one of safety is a difficult one and it does not have to be expensive. HRS Group Inc. stands ready to aid your company to a positive safety culture change. Give us a call at (705)749-1259 or e-mail us at . All it would take to make your place a safer one is to give HRS Group Inc. a try.
Thanks.
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 – Advanced Level
VP & Senior Trainer
HRS Group Inc.