A Wallaceburg automotive tooling manufacturer has been fined $75,000 after a worker was critically injured when a heavy steel assembly tipped and fell during crane operations.
Aarkel Tool and Die Inc. pleaded guilty in Provincial Offences Court in Chatham on May 28 to failing to provide proper instruction and supervision under the Occupational Health and Safety Act. Justice of the Peace Helen M. Gale imposed the penalty along with a 25 per cent victim fine surcharge.
The incident occurred on November 20, 2022, at the company’s facility on Lowe Avenue in Wallaceburg. A worker was using an overhead crane to fit together two parts of a heavy steel automotive tool when the accident happened.
Safety equipment not properly secured
The worker was attempting to join a shot block and carrier assembly using the crane. After lowering the shot block onto the carrier assembly, the worker placed jackscrews underneath to prevent the object from tipping.
However, the jackscrews were not bolted, secured or attached to either the work surface or the assembly itself. When the worker pulled on the positioned shot block and felt it move, the lower carrier assembly tipped and fell off the work surface, causing critical injuries.
The Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development found that Aarkel Tool and Die Inc. failed to provide adequate instruction and supervision regarding the selection and placement of appropriate safety materials.
Court proceedings and penalties
Crown Counsel Steven Succi prosecuted the case. The $75,000 fine reflects the company’s failure to meet its obligations under section 25(2)(a) of the Occupational Health and Safety Act, which requires employers to provide information, instruction and supervision to protect worker health and safety.
The court also imposed the mandatory 25 per cent victim fine surcharge, which goes to a special provincial fund that assists crime victims.
Aarkel Tool and Die Inc. operates from 17 Elm Drive South in Wallaceburg and manufactures automotive tooling equipment. The company’s workplace is located at 760 Lowe Avenue in the same community.
The case highlights the importance of proper safety protocols when handling heavy machinery and equipment in manufacturing environments, particularly regarding the secure positioning of lifting and support equipment during crane operations.
