Charges laid against Steelfab Industries Limited

Oliver Langdon, Minister of Environment and Labour, today announced that on November 29, 2000, charges were laid against Steelfab Industries Limited for alleged violations of the Occupational Health and Safety Act and Regulations.

The charges stem from an inspection and subsequent investigation in February of this year into unsafe work practices carried out by Steelfab Industries Limited during the renovation of a local business in St. John�s. Minister Langdon noted that in this case, charges have been laid, not as a result of an accident but for alleged repeat non-compliance with the fall protection requirements of the Occupational Health and Safety Act and Regulations.

"Health and safety inspectors with the department will continue to take a firm approach in ensuring the compliance with health and safety legislation in order to prevent workplace accidents and injuries," said Minister Langdon. "I also want to remind all employers that the best way to avoid charges is to ensure complete and full compliance with the Act and Regulations."

Media contact: Diane Keough, Communications, (709) 729-2575.

2000 12 06 12:30 p.m.