Released on June 10, 2016
The Village of Torquay pleaded guilty on June 6, 2016 in Estevan Provincial court to one count under Occupational Health and Safety legislation.The Village pleaded guilty to failing to take all practicable steps to prevent exposure of a worker, to an extent that is likely to be harmful to a worker, to a chemical or biological substance that may be hazardous and did thereby cause the death of a worker.
The Village was fined $30,000 with a $12,000 surcharge. Two other charges were stayed.
Charges stemmed after a workplace fatality on March 11, 2014 near the Village of Torquay where a worker was in a confined space and was exposed to hydrogen sulfide gas.
Hydrogen sulfide, also referred to as H2S or sour gas, is highly toxic and exposures to high concentrations can lead to death. Low levels of H2S have a foul odor similar to rotten eggs, however, at high levels there is no smell.
A hazard assessment should be completed to determine if a space is safe to enter. Employees must be provided with training.
For more information on hydrogen sulfide gas exposure including prevention tips, visit www.worksafesask.ca/prevention/environmental-risks/hydrogen-sulfide-gas-exposure/.
-30-
For more information, contact:
Laura McKnight
Labour Relations and Workplace Safety
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0355
Email: laura.mcknight@gov.sk.ca