The penalties imposed were under a creative sentencing provision of the OHS Act
Glenmore Fabricators Limited has been ordered to pay a total of $200,000 in penalties following a tragic workplace incident that resulted in the death of an employee in 2021. CBC News reported that the company pleaded guilty to one count of failing to develop and adhere to procedures certified by a professional engineer, a violation of the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Code.
The incident occurred at the company’s facility in Calgary when a worker was using an overhead crane to move a steel beam. The beam fell from its rigging, striking the worker and ultimately leading to fatal injuries.
On Tuesday, the Calgary Court of Justice issued the penalties, which include a $1,000 fine and a significant contribution of $174,000 to the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT). This funding is designated for the purchase of equipment that will enhance the school’s electrical and welding apprenticeship programs, the report noted. Additionally, Glenmore Fabricators will contribute $25,000 to the Manufacturers’ Health & Safety Association to improve its Rigging Resource Centre website, a resource aimed at enhancing safety practices in the industry.
As part of the sentencing, Glenmore Fabricators will also be subject to two years of enhanced regulatory supervision by the Alberta Occupational Health and Safety agency. This supervision aims to ensure compliance with safety regulations and to prevent future incidents.
The Crown withdrew 10 other charges under the OHS legislation as part of the agreement. The penalties were imposed under a creative sentencing provision of the Occupational Health and Safety Act, which allows fines to be directed toward initiatives that promote workplace safety rather than solely paying the Crown.
Both Glenmore Fabricators and the Crown have a 30-day period to appeal the conviction or the penalties. The $1,000 fine includes a 20% victim fine surcharge, which is a standard procedure for fines imposed for violations leading to workplace injuries or fatalities.
