Investigation Results in Occupational Health and Safety Charges

Service NL announced today that Atlantic Minerals Ltd. and a company supervisor have been charged with violations under the Occupational Health and Safety Act and Regulations in relation to an incident that occurred on June 17, 2011. The charges are the result of an investigation by the Occupational Health and Safety Branch.

The incident occurred at the company facility at Brake’s Cove, and involved a worker whose right hand was crushed when the press portion of a concrete block machine activated unexpectedly. The victim’s hand injuries resulted in the surgical amputation of one finger.

The company has been charged with five violations under the Occupational Health and Safety Act and Regulations which relate generally to its alleged failure as an employer to provide a safe workplace and to ensure that machine maintenance is done according to manufacturer’s instructions. In addition, the employer failed to ensure that machinery is guarded to prevent access and that machinery is locked out to prevent injury due to unexpected startup.

The supervisor is alleged to have generally failed to ensure the health, safety and welfare of all workers under his supervision.

The first appearance for both was Tuesday, January 22 at Provincial Court in Corner Brook, with the second appearance set for Tuesday, February 19.

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

2013 02 04                         10:45 a.m.