A St. Catharines roofing contractor has been fined $78,000 after a worker suffered critical injuries from falling off an improperly secured ladder at a Niagara Region school.
PEC Roof Maintenance pleaded guilty in Welland Provincial Offences Court to violating Ontario’s Occupational Health and Safety Act by failing to secure both ends of a ladder as required by construction regulations.
The incident occurred in January 2023 when two workers were sent to repair a roof leak at a secondary school in Fonthill. Though the top of the 32-foot aluminum ladder was secured to roof flashing with nylon rope, the bottom remained unsecured despite snow and ice present at the worksite.
When the worker stepped onto the ladder to retrieve equipment from a vehicle, it slipped out from underneath, resulting in critical injuries.
Justice of the Peace Moira Moses imposed the fine on February 13, 2025, following the company’s guilty plea. An additional 25 percent victim fine surcharge was applied as required by law.
The Ministry of Labour investigation determined that the company failed to treat the ground area with sand or similar material to ensure firm footing in winter conditions. The company was also held liable for the actions of its supervisor under section 66(4) of the Act.
This case highlights employers’ legal responsibilities to implement proper fall protection measures and secure equipment in hazardous working conditions.
