Two companies and a supervisor are facing workplace safety charges following a fatal accident at a Newfoundland and Labrador fish farm in July 2023.
Ocean Trout Canada Inc., based in Bedford, N.S., and its subsidiary Nova Fish Farm Inc., located in St. Alban’s, N.L., have been charged under Newfoundland and Labrador’s Occupational Health and Safety Act and Regulations. The companies are accused of multiple safety violations, including failing to provide adequate training, supervision, and protective equipment for workers.
The charges stem from an investigation by the province’s Occupational Health and Safety Division. According to the Department of Digital Government and Service NL, the companies allegedly failed to ensure workers were properly trained on health and safety risks, did not provide safe work procedures, and neglected to supply necessary equipment, such as flotation devices for those exposed to drowning hazards.
A Nova Fish Farm Inc. supervisor has also been charged with failing to ensure the health and safety of workers under their supervision.
The first court appearances for the companies and the supervisor are scheduled for Feb. 26, 2025, in Grand Falls-Windsor Provincial Court.
