Manitoba Labour and Immigration is urging employers to ensure workplace machinery is equipped with proper safeguards after Aikens Lake Lodge Limited was fined $20,000 following a serious workplace injury.
The incident occurred on July 20, 2022, when a worker operating a table saw without a safeguard came into contact with the blade, resulting in the amputation of their thumb.
Following an investigation by Workplace Safety and Health officials, the employer was charged under the Workplace Safety and Health Act. On Nov. 12, 2024, Aikens Lake Lodge Limited pleaded guilty to violating Section 16.5(1)(b) of the regulations, which requires machines to have safeguards to prevent worker contact with cutting, shaping, or boring points.
The court imposed an $18,000 fine on the employer, along with an additional $2,000 to be used for education purposes under Section 55.1(1) of the act.
“This case underscores the importance of ensuring all machinery is properly safeguarded to protect workers,” Manitoba Labour and Immigration said in a statement.
Employers are encouraged to review their safety protocols and equipment to ensure compliance with provincial safety regulations.
