Hampton Affiliates has been fined more than $1million for a fiery explosion that killed two workers and injured 19 on January 22, 2012. It’s believed to be the largest penalty imposed on an employer in the history of the western province of British Columbia.
Laws vary across Canada, but each province and territory has its own legal obligation to insure the health and safety of employees. A report into this explosion said it could have been prevented. Investigators found the company knew it had an inadequate dust collection system, particularly given there was a similar explosion and fire a year earlier.
Botched investigation means no charges
No criminal charges were laid however, in part because prosecutors said investigators failed to obtain search warrants or inform witnesses of their charter rights before taking statements.
Some victims’ family members are not satisfied with the fine and are continuing to call for an independent inquiry. The company says it will appeal the fine.
Last month, the provincial government announced a safety plan would be put in place to prevent other sawmills from exploding.
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