Fatality Alert
It with great sadness I inform you that on January 30, 2017, Ivor Lundin a member from USW Local 1-423 in Kelowna B.C. was fatally injured while working at Tolko Industries Ltd in Kelowna, BC, Canada.
Our condolences go out to the family and co-workers of the deceased.
Emergency Response Team member Ed Kent from Local 1-424 went to assist the family and the Local Union during this tragic event.
The Local Union, RCMP, Coroners Service, Transportation Safety Board, Transport Canada and Worksafe BC are still investigating this incident.
Please review the information below with the objective of preventing similar incidents at your operations.
Although the details of this incident are still unknown, review the following safety information:
Emergency Response – Consider all the types of emergencies that may occur in your operations. Conduct realistic drills to prepare all supervisors and workers to respond to those emergencies. For example: a boat taking on water, evacuation of a worker from an equipment rollover, and access roads blocked by landslides or avalanches.
Regularly inspect all equipment, including personal protective equipment to make sure it is working properly. Floatation devices, pumps, and high visibility clothing all need to be inspected and replaced if necessary.
Pre-shift inspections of mobile equipment are required. Complete a thorough inspection and repair deficiencies before starting the job.
Make sure to look at your site for workers that are working alone and ensure that the appropriate “Working Alone” procedures are in place
Take a look at your worksite with fresh eyes. Think critically about the operation, identify what potential incidents could occur and come up with an action plan to control those hazards.
In Solidarity,
Brian Harder