Crushing of Worker’s Hand Results in OHS Charges for Company and Supervisor

A worker’s right hand was crushed when the press portion of a concrete block machine activated unexpectedly. He had to have one finger amputated. The company was charged with five violations of the OHS Act and Regulations for failing to provide a safe workplace and ensure that machine maintenance is done according to manufacturer’s instructions, machinery is guarded to prevent access and machinery is locked out to prevent injury due to unexpected start-up. A supervisor was also charged with failing to ensure the health, safety and welfare of workers under his supervision [Atlantic Minerals Ltd., Govt. News Release, Feb. 4, 2013].