BC Wildfire Service addressing WorkSafeBC findings
The death of a 19-year-old firefighter in British Columbia was caused by multiple violations against the province’s Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA), according to WorkSafeBC.
Devyn Gale died on July 13, 2023. She was struck and trapped by a falling tree while clearing brush near a small fire. She was a member of the approximately 1,600-strong team of the BC Wildfire Servicel
In its investigation, WorkSafeBC found no evidence that the employer had not completed a dangerous tree assessment on the burning cedar at the site before the workers began their work, according to a Global News report.
“This was an ineffective and inadequate means of managing that hazard” that does not align with safety procedures, said the organization, according to the report.
On top of that, there were also gaps in the supervision of dangerous tree assessment and the training of young employees.
“We are taking action on all the findings from WorkSafeBC and building on our commitment to safety and support for all crew members,” said Bruce Ralston, minister of forests and minister responsible for the BC Wildfire Service, according to Global News.
“The safety of BC Wildfire Service crew members is our first priority.”
The ministry will also increase personal protective gear, strengthen training opportunities, improve recruitment, and enhance access to physical and mental health supports, according to the report.
Meanwhile, BC Wildfire Service has taken “Immediate and specific actions” to “enhance safety and training,” said Executive Director Rob Schweitzer.
“These include providing customized Danger Tree Awareness training for all BC Wildfire Service staff, increasing Danger Tree Assessor mentorship, and forging stronger partnerships with safety associations to provide training to BC Wildfire Service members.”
Schweitzer said additional changes include converting crew supervisors into year-round positions and supporting research partnerships to improve physical and mental health and safety, reported Global News.
“I know that every member of the BC Wildfire Service is deeply committed to their jobs and their role in keeping B.C. safe,” he said.
“It is my job to ensure that everyone from crew members to support staff can carry out their work in as safe an environment as possible. I am dedicated to ensuring this work continues throughout this summer and years to come.”
