The Department of Government Services announced today that two companies have been charged with alleged violations under the Occupational Health and Safety Act and regulations. The incidents resulting in the charges are unrelated.

The first incident arose from an accident in St. John�s in December 2005 where an employee of Clarke�s Trucking and Excavating Ltd. was struck by an excavator, subsequently losing his leg to amputation. The company was charged with three alleged violations of the Occupational Health and Safety Act and regulations for failing to provide training and ensure the wearing of protective clothing, and for disturbing the scene of an accident. The first appearance in Provincial Court in St. John�s was on January 21, 2008. The next appearance is scheduled for February 11, 2008.

The second prosecution involves All Pro Roofing Limited. The company was charged for non-compliance with required provisions for fall protection under the Occupational Health and Safety Act and regulations. In November 2006, employees were working on the roof of a school near Springdale without proper fall protection therefore violating legislation. The first appearance at Springdale Provincial Court occurred on Tuesday, February 5, 2008, with a second appearance scheduled for March 4, 2008.

The charges in both cases are the result of investigations by the Occupational Health and Safety Branch.

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Media contact:
Vanessa Colman-Sadd
Director of Communications
Department of Government Services
709-729-4860, 682-6593
vanessacolmansadd@gov.nl.ca

2008 02 07                                                      9:50 a.m.