A 2008 ruling by WorkSafeBC underlines the importance of a proper safety orientation for more than just your employees. EnCana Corporation was fined $150,000 for a 2005 incident that resulted in the death of a contractor who was brush-cutting for EnCana.

"An initial site visit by WorkSafeBC officers found that stumps of most fallen trees cut by the crew didn't meet the assessment of the B.C. Faller Training Standard. WorkSafeBC also criticized the ineffectiveness of worker orientation, citing a 23-minute general safety video as inadequate to address the specific issues the slashing crew were dealing with."

The contractor was crushed by improperly fallen trees while "performing work duties that were significantly beyond his abilities,'' the incident report said. Because of the remoteness of the worksite, the lack of a First Aid Attendant and poor weather conditions, the injured worker did not receive medical attention in a timely fashion.

EnCana spokesman, Boras, said the company has since improved training. "We have increased our training and have worked with WorkSafeBC to come up with a safety plan with respect to tree falling.''

Anyone working for your company, whether an employee or outside contractor, need the proper safety orientation for the workplace they will occupy. Proper preparation and training can prevent injury or death.

Source: OHS Canada

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