On October 15, 2023, Glenmore Fabricators Ltd. faced serious repercussions under the Occupational Health and Safety Code. The firm pleaded guilty to one count of failing to develop and comply with safety procedures certified by a professional engineer. This ruling followed a tragic incident that occurred on August 16, 2021, when a worker in his 50s lost his life due to a workplace accident involving an overhead crane and a steel beam.
During the fateful day, the worker was engaged in moving a heavy steel beam when it unexpectedly detached from the rigging. The beam fell onto him, leading to life-threatening injuries. Immediate action was taken by another worker on site, who called emergency services and helped remove the beam from the injured man. Unfortunately, despite the rapid response from EMS, the worker was declared dead at the scene, highlighting the grave consequences of safety oversights.
Following this incident, a thorough investigation by authorities took several years, culminating in a significant financial penalty for Glenmore Fabricators. The total penalties amounted to $200,000, which included a $1,000 fine with a 20% victim fine surcharge. This breakdown indicates the seriousness with which the government of Alberta treats violations of workplace safety protocols.
The financial penalties imposed on Glenmore Fabricators were allocated in a manner aimed at improving workplace safety in the future. Specifically, $174,000 was designated for the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) to enhance its electrical and welding apprenticeship programs through the purchase of new equipment. Additionally, $25,000 was allocated to the Manufacturers’ Health and Safety Association to improve their rigging resource centre website, which is intended to educate and promote safe practices in the industry.
In addition to the financial penalties, Glenmore Fabricators has been subjected to two years of enhanced regulatory supervision. This means that the company must complete a series of action items designed to strengthen its health and safety systems. This oversight is crucial for ensuring that such tragic incidents do not recur in the future.
The Occupational Health and Safety Act provides a unique opportunity for sentencing that directs funds, which would otherwise be paid as fines, to organizations or projects focused on enhancing workplace health and safety. This creative approach aims not only to penalize violations but also to foster an environment where safety becomes a paramount concern across industries.
