A young worker was killed a year ago near James Bay due to lack of training. Fernand Gilbert ltée was charged by the Commission de la santé et de la sécurité du travail (CSST) in March of 2009 with "failing to protect the health and safety of its workers."

"The incident took place on January 11, 2008, notes the report, on a project that was part of the $2 billion Rupert River diversion project, led by Société d’énergie de la Baie James, a subsidiary of Hydro Québec.

The two workers were replacing a rear wheel on a 50-tonne dump truck in the company’s service area. After placing the wheel on its axle and filling the tire up part way, they proceeded to fasten it with screws. Suddenly, the tire exploded, sending both workers flying.

David Girard, 22, sustained fatal injuries to his head, while the other worker was seriously injured."

"The report notes that the operation requires high-level technical knowledge. Crucially, the workers were not aware of the dangers of inflating a tire that is less than 80 per cent full without first removing the wheel and inspecting it thoroughly. The investigation also found that the employer was aware of the risks involved in replacing truck tires. Indeed, its own prevention program specified that a safety cage be used when replacing tires, although no such cage was available on site.

Turgeon notes that Fernand Gilbert has 30 days to contest the charges, after which a judge will decide on a fine between $5,000 and $20,000. Representatives from the company could not be reached for comment."

Source: OHS Canada

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