Ontario lumber firm fined $48,000 for worker injury

TORONTO (Scrap Monster):  Thunder Bay, Ontario-based McKenzie Lumber Inc. has been fined $48,000 for failing to adhere to safety regulations that resulted in a worker crushing his arm inside an industrial log-sawing machine. In addition, the court has also imposed 25% as victim fine surcharge, which will be credited to a government fund that will be used to provide help to victims of crime.

The incident took place on March 12^th, 2013. The log-sawing machine at company worksite in 120, Mills Road in Hudson, Ontario underwent breakdown. The production worker on duty was notified about the breakdown. The operator turned off the machine and locked out the electrical breakers from master control panel. The operator then left the site, without blocking the side canters and leaving clamshells open.

Meantime, a worker was called to perform maintenance works on saw blades. While saw change was being carried out, an alarm sounded. The production worker, who noticed a metal piece on the conveyor belt, removed it. In the meantime, the saw blade maintenance work was completed and the assigned worker switched on the field control box on the master control panel. At the same time, the production worker had climbed into the machine near the side canters. While gesturing with his arm, the side canters grabbed his arm and was crushed.

The Court in its ruling observed that the company had failed to carry out necessary safety precautions as laid out in Ontario Regulation 851 – the Industrial Establishments Regulation – and the Occupational Health and Safety Act. Section 75(b).