Manitoba Labour and Immigration is reminding employers to ensure the safety, health and welfare of workers and also ensure that machines in the workplace are equipped with appropriate safeguards after Manitoba Hydro pleaded guilty to violations of the Workplace Safety and Health Act and its associated regulations.
On Dec. 6, 2019, a power line technician employed by Manitoba Hydro was working at a job site in Brandon removing fibreglass arms on a concrete hydro pole and replacing them with a single wooden component. The worker and crew had done the work without de-energizing the hydro lines that carried 7,200 volts of electricity. While carrying out the work, the worker came into contact with the electricity, which created an arc flash, causing burns to the worker’s face. The worker sought immediate medical treatment for second-degree facial burns.
Workplace Safety and Health officials conducted a thorough investigation and laid charges under the Workplace Safety and Health Act. On June 2, Manitoba Hydro pleaded guilty to Section 4(1)(a) of the act, namely, failing to ensure, so far as practicable, the worker’s safety, health and/or welfare at work. The fine of $65,000 was imposed on Manitoba Hydro by the court.
