"The Ontario government will continue its efforts to reduce workplace injuries by cracking down on hazards involving forklifts and lifting devices at industrial workplaces in February 2009, Labour Minister Peter Fonseca announced today.

Inspectors will focus on ensuring employers are inspecting and maintaining lifting devices in good condition, using competent persons to operate the equipment and ensuring that the equipment is being used in a safe work environment.

For each conviction, the court can impose a fine of up to $500,000 against a corporation convicted under the Occupational Health and Safety Act. Individuals face a fine of up to $25,000 or imprisonment of up to 12 months, or both.

This initiative is part of the province’s new Safe At Work Ontario blitz strategy, announced on July 23, 2008. Keeping more workers safe means increased productivity for Ontario’s economy and less strain on the health care system."

Source: http://www.labour.gov.on.ca/english/news/2009/09-11.html

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