Richvale York Block Inc., a manufacturer of concrete blocks for the construction industry, has been fined $50,000 following a workplace injury at its London, Ont., facility.
The conviction was handed down after the company pleaded guilty to failing to ensure proper safety measures were in place, leading to a worker’s injury.
The incident occurred on Jan. 27, 2023, at the company’s workplace located at 1298 Clarke Road, London. According to the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, a worker was performing duties on a raised platform approximately 29 inches above the ground. While using a heat gun to apply shrink-wrap to a concrete block, the worker stepped backwards, fell from the platform, and sustained a critical injury.
The ministry’s investigation revealed that the platform lacked a guardrail on its open side, a violation of section 13(1)(b)(i) of the Regulation for Industrial Establishments. This regulation mandates the presence of guardrails to prevent falls. The absence of this safety feature contravened section 25(1)(c) of the Occupational Health and Safety Act and constituted an offence under subsection 66(1) of the Act.
Justice of the Peace Kristine M. Diaz presided over the case in the Provincial Offences Court in London. The Crown Counsel, Judy Chan, represented the prosecution. In addition to the $50,000 fine, the court imposed a 25 percent victim fine surcharge. This surcharge is directed to a provincial fund dedicated to assisting victims of crime.
Richvale York Block Inc. employs approximately 19 people at its London facility. The company has not publicly commented on the incident or the court’s decision.