A Victoria-based construction firm with a history of safety violations has been ordered to pay thousands of dollars in fines due to unsafe work conditions.
WorkSafeBC, the regulatory body overseeing workplace safety in BC, recently imposed a penalty of $10,000 on asbestos abatement company in Victoria.
According to the organization, this action comes as a consequence of repeat and high-risk violations related to asbestos handling, which posed serious risks to workers’ health and safety.
The fines, disclosed on WorkSafeBC.com this month, reveal that the violations were identified during an inspection carried out by WorkSafeBC officials at a worksite on July 25th.
As of January 1st, 2024, asbestos abatement contractors in BC are mandated to obtain licenses for operation. Furthermore, individuals engaging in asbestos abatement work must undergo mandatory safety training and acquire certification to ensure compliance with safety standards.
The imperative for stringent adherence to safety protocols in asbestos handling stems from the severe health risks associated with asbestos exposure. Asbestos exposure remains the leading cause of worker fatalities in the province. In 2022, it was a contributing factor in 61 work-related deaths, accounting for approximately 33 percent of all work-related fatalities.
WorkSafeBC says its decision to implement mandatory training and licensing for asbestos abatement work is aimed at safeguarding workers from the inherent dangers posed by asbestos.
The firm in question, was found to be conducting asbestos abatement at a residential property when WorkSafeBC conducted an inspection.
Several significant deficiencies were identified in the firm’s practices related to handling asbestos-containing materials (ACMs), prompting WorkSafeBC to issue a stop-work order.
The violations observed included the firm’s failure to prevent the spread of asbestos dust and debris to other areas, inadequate training of workers in the correct use of necessary personal protective equipment, and insufficient practices for controlling and handling asbestos.
These repeated violations were deemed high-risk, exacerbating the potential danger to workers.
Additionally, the firm neglected to secure windows and other openings adequately before commencing work with ACMs, which could lead to the release of asbestos fibers.
WorkSafeBC said there were further oversights in ensuring the proper fit-testing of respirators requiring an effective seal and the absence of specific written procedures guiding the safe removal of asbestos dust and debris.
For more information regarding asbestos training, certification, and licensing, individuals and firms are encouraged to refer to WorkSafeBC resources and guidelines.
