Government Department Pleads Guilty in Fatal Boiler Plant Explosion

A worker for the federal Department of Public Works was killed when a boiler plant exploded. The department pleaded guilty to failing to provide the necessary OHS training for the operation of a boiler; adequately train supervisors and managers in health and safety issues; and develop a program for the prevention of workplace hazards. The court will sentence it next year. After the explosion, the department indicated that it was implementing various health and safety measures, including enhanced training, a review of OHS programs and hiring a third party to review operations and emergency evacuation plans [Public Works and Government Services Canada, Nov. 20, 2012].