Charges laid in relation to fatal accident in Wabush

The Department of Government Services announced today that two companies have been charged for alleged violations under the Occupational Health and Safety Act and Regulations in relation to a fatal industrial accident in Wabush two years ago.

The accident at Wabush Mines-Scully Mine on February 13, 2003 resulted in the death of one worker, Robert Whitten, 72, a resident of Labrador City. Mr. Whitten, an employee of Whitten�s Fuel Oil, died when he was struck by a piece of heavy equipment during a refueling operation.

The charges against Wabush Iron Co. Ltd. and Cliffs Mining Co. were laid February 9, 2005 and are the result of an investigation by the Occupational Health and Safety Branch. Wabush Iron Co. Ltd. has been charged with five violations under the Occupational Health and Safety Act and Cliffs Mining Co. is facing six charges.

The violations relate to the alleged failure by the companies to ensure that employees and contracted workers were trained in the relevant refueling procedure, and that they were made familiar with the safety hazards they may encounter in the workplace.

The first appearance is scheduled for March 16, 2005 at Provincial Court in Wabush.

Media contact: Tracy Barron, Communications, (709) 729-4860, 690-6157

2005 02 23                   3:20 p.m.