Billboard worker fell from a ladder in downtown Toronto
Toronto, ON – The Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development (MLITSD) issued an order to C.C.R. Posting Inc. after a worker falls to his death while working on a billboard near Bathurst and Dupont streets on February 3, 2025.
Ministry inspectors attended the site on the day of the incident and issued a requirement for documentation from the employer. "On February 3, 2025, ministry inspectors attended the scene, where they issued one requirement to C.C.R. Posting Inc. for documentation," a ministry spokesperson tells Canadian Occupational Safety.
The ministry confirms that the worker suffers fatal injuries after falling from a ladder while performing billboard maintenance. "On February 3, 2025, the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development received notification of a reported fatality in Toronto. It is being reported that a worker sustained fatal injuries while working on a billboard," the ministry says in a statement.
Officials assign an inspector to investigate potential workplace safety violations. However, they decline to release further details at this time. "As the investigation is ongoing, we are unable to provide further information," the ministry states.
Fall protection under scrutiny
The fatality raises concerns about fall protection practices in the outdoor advertising industry. Under Ontario’s Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA), employers must ensure workers are protected from falls using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), guardrails, or fall arrest systems when working at heights above three metres.
While it remains unclear whether the worker was using fall protection at the time, safety experts emphasize the importance of proper training and adherence to ladder safety regulations.
Industry impact and next steps
As the investigation continues, the ministry may issue further orders or penalties if safety violations are found. The employer could be required to improve safety training, update procedures, or face fines under provincial regulations.
In the meantime, the ministry extends its condolences to those affected. "The ministry expresses its condolences to the family and colleagues of the worker," it states.
C.C.R. Posting Inc. has not issued a public statement regarding the incident.
