Charges have been laid against the supervisor of a Hydro One employee who died on the job in Haliburton County March 21.
The Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development said it has concluded its investigation into the matter. In September, supervisor and worker was charged under the Occupational Health and Safety Act with failing to take every precaution reasonable in the circumstances for the protection of a worker and failing to work in a manner that did not endanger other workers.
The ministry has not announced charges against Hydro One as a company itself. With the investigation finished, Ministry spokesperson Janet Deline said “at this time, charges have been laid against the individual only.”
The fatality occurred in the County of Haliburton after an industrial accident on Coleman Lake Road. A 25-year-old Sydenham man was taken to local hospital, where he was pronounced deceased, according to OPP at the time.
The Minden man is scheduled for a first appearance Nov. 28 at the Ontario Court of Justice in Lindsay. A Hydro One spokesperson said the company could not comment as the matter is before the courts.
In a March 21 Facebook post after the incident, Hydro One confirmed the Sydenham man died due to injuries on the job and it welcomed the ministry investigation.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of our employee and, above all else, our thoughts and condolences are with the family, friends and colleagues,” Hydro One said. “There is nothing more important to us than the safety of our employees.”
The Highlander will provide more information as it is made available.
