Contractors found guilty for violations of occupational health and safety regulations

Aspen Cove Enterprises Limited and Notre Dame Roofing Limited have been found guilty on charges laid under the Occupational Health and Safety legislation. The charges were the result of an investigation into the death, on November 30, 1998, of Raymond Hawco, aged 44. Mr. Hawco died as a result of injuries sustained in a 26 foot fall from the roof of the Jens Haven School which was under construction in Nain, Labrador.

Mr. Hawco�s employer, Notre Dame Roofing Ltd was found guilty of failing to ensure that fall protection systems were used by all workers at elevations greater than 3.05 metres, and failing to ensure the use of toe holds and fall protection on a roof having a pitch of 1/3 or greater. The company was fined $7,500 on each count for a total fine of $15,000.

Aspen Cove Enterprises Ltd., the principal contractor on the project was found guilty under similar sections. The company was also fined $7,500 on each count for a total fine of $15,000.

The Minister of Environment and Labour, Oliver Langdon, said the outcome of this case sends a message that employers in this province must ensure the safety of their workers. "Violations of the Occupational Health and Safety legislation will not be tolerated," said Minister Langdon. "Employers and principal contractors have a responsibility to ensure that workers in their employ are provided with the appropriate protective equipment, training and information to safely perform their duties. Employees also have a clear responsibility to use safety equipment properly and to abide by health and safety procedures."

Media contact: Sean Kelly, Communications, (709) 729-2575.

2000 11 20 10:50 a.m.