Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro and one of its supervisors are facing multiple charges under provincial occupational health and safety legislation following a workplace death that occurred nearly two years ago.
The charges stem from a fatal accident that took place in August 2023 in Holyrood, according to the Occupational Health and Safety Division of the Department of Government Modernization and Service Delivery, which investigated the incident.
Multiple safety violations alleged
The Crown corporation faces nine separate charges related to workplace safety failures, including allegations it failed to provide and maintain a safe workplace with proper equipment and systems. Additional charges include failing to provide adequate training and supervision, not reviewing its safety program within the required three-year timeframe, and not ensuring proper use of protective equipment.
Other charges allege the company failed to ensure safe work procedures were followed and that tools and equipment were used according to manufacturer guidelines. The utility is also accused of not obtaining required written assurance when minimum safety distances around power systems could not be maintained.
Supervisor also charged
A supervisor with the utility faces one charge for allegedly failing to ensure the health, safety and welfare of workers under their supervision.
The charges represent some of the most serious violations possible under the Newfoundland and Labrador Occupational Health and Safety Act and Regulations, with potential penalties including significant fines for both the corporation and individual supervisor.
Both Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro and the supervisor are scheduled to make their first court appearances at Provincial Court in St. John’s on August 21, 2025.
