A Mississauga, Ont., aluminum manufacturer has been fined $100,000 after a worker was injured when a machine activated while he was performing maintenance, highlighting the critical importance of proper lockout procedures in industrial settings.
Alugard Ltd. pleaded guilty in Provincial Offences Court on February 5 to multiple violations of the Occupational Health and Safety Act following an incident that occurred at its facility on Matheson Boulevard on October 3, 2022.
Worker injured while clearing debris
The incident happened when a worker was troubleshooting a malfunctioning pro-line door jamb processing centre used to make aluminum window jambs. The machine was operating in automatic mode with its safety systems disabled and moving parts unblocked.
To clear debris from the equipment, the worker leaned into the cutting area and used compressed air. This action removed an obstruction from a sensor, which triggered the machine to activate suddenly. The machine’s carriage began moving, injuring the worker.
A Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development investigation found that Alugard failed to ensure proper lockout and blocking procedures were followed during the maintenance work.
Company obstructed investigation
The investigation also revealed that the company obstructed the ministry’s investigation and tampered with the machine’s safety device after the incident occurred. Alugard also failed to comply with orders to submit a written notice of the incident to authorities.
Justice of the Peace Veruschka Fisher-Grant imposed the $100,000 fine along with a 25 per cent victim fine surcharge required under the Provincial Offences Act. Crown Counsel Judith Parker handled the prosecution.
Multiple safety violations found
The company was found to have contravened section 76 of Ontario Regulation 851/90, which requires proper machine lockout procedures during maintenance. The violations also included sections 25(1)(c), 62(1) and 66(1)(b) of the Occupational Health and Safety Act.
Alugard Ltd. operates from facilities on Tranmere Drive in Mississauga and manufactures aluminum products for the construction industry.
