A Manitoba employer recently pleaded guilty to two counts under the
Workplace Safety and Health Act and Regulations:
- Section 16.5(1)(a) of the Workplace Safety and Health Regulations, M.R. 217/2006 to the charge of failing to ensure that a machine has safeguards on it that will prevent a worker from coming into contact with moving parts on the machine.
- Section 2.7(1) of the Workplace Safety and Health Regulations, M.R. 217/2006 to the charge of failing to immediately and by the fastest means of communication available, notify the Branch of a serious incident involving an employee.
A young worker's hand got caught in the unguarded rotating chain and sprocket components of a resin mixer. The worker suffered amputations of his left middle and index fingers, as well as crushing injuries to his left ring finger.
The employer was fined $54,252.
A second Manitoba employer recently pleaded guilty to Section 16.5(1)(a) of the
Workplace Safety and Health Regulations, M.R. 217/2006 to the charge of failing to ensure that a machine has safeguards on it that will prevent a worker from coming into contact with moving parts of the machine.
A worker was using a Stamco Roller to roll a metal pipe coupler. The worker placed coupler into the rollers of the Stamco Roller. While placing the metal pipe between the machine's rollers, the worker placed his left hand on the metal pipe coupler. The worker's left hand became pinched between the rollers when he inadvertently hit the forward control lever of the machine with his right elbow. The worker suffered an amputation of all five fingers on his left hand.
The employer was fined $47,500, plus an additional $10,000 payable to Workplace Safety and Health to be used for the purpose of educating the public on matters relating to workplace safety and health.
Understanding employer responsibilities related to safety and health is an important part of preventing injuries. SAFE Work Manitoba offers information on:
Find more information here on workplace safety and health prosecutions.
