Fall protection violations lead to fine for B.C. employers

“The firm failed to ensure fall protection was used, a repeated and high-risk violation,” according to WorkSafeBC.

Arctic Roofing & Exteriors Ltd. was also fined $5,000 for violations it committed while roofing a new apartment building in Prince George.

WorkSafeBC inspected the worksite and observed one worker walk across the sloped roof and approach the leading edge, carrying materials. The worker was wearing a fall protection harness but the lifeline was not connected to an anchor. No other form of fall protection was in place, exposing the worker to a fall risk of about 11.3 m (37 ft.).

“The firm failed to ensure fall protection was used, a high-risk violation. The firm also failed to provide its workers with the information, instruction, training, and supervision necessary to ensure their health and safety. These were both repeated violations,” according to the agency.

Jerry Lee Wetherelt, also known as JL Roofing, was also fined $2,500 for a violation it committed at its residential worksite in Cowichan Bay.

A worker at the edge of a 5:12 sloped roof and no form of fall protection was in place, exposing the worker to a fall risk of about 6.1 m (20 ft.), according to WorkSafeBC.

The firm failed to ensure fall protection was used, a repeated and high-risk violation, it said.

Previously, Global Gutters Ltd., Performance Insulation Inc., Online Constructors Ltd. and AM PM Landscaping & Tree Service Ltd. were also previously fined for similar violations.

"Falls are common causes of serious work related injuries and deaths. Fall protection planning can help to eliminate the hazards or control the risks associated with working near openings or at heights," according to the the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS).

In January 2021, WorkSafeBC released a guidebook to help employers prevent slips, trips and falls in the workplace.