Van Isle Hazmat Inc. Faces Major Fine for Asbestos Violations

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News Summary

Van Isle Hazmat Inc. was fined over $61,000 for unsafe asbestos practices during a demolition project, raising concerns about worker safety.

Van Isle Hazmat Inc. Faces Major Fine for Asbestos Violations

In a significant crackdown on safety violations, Van Isle Hazmat Inc., an Esquimalt-based company with a checkered history in asbestos abatement, has been slapped with a hefty fine exceeding $61,000 by WorkSafeBC. The penalty comes in response to serious breaches of workplace safety standards that took place during the demolition of a home in the Victoria area on October 29, 2024.

High-Risk Violations During Demolition

The report from WorkSafeBC outlined numerous instances where Van Isle Hazmat failed to effectively control the spread of asbestos dust and debris. The company was specifically conducting work on a two-storey, wood-framed residence constructed in 1946, which was known to contain hazardous materials. During the inspection, it became apparent that asbestos-contaminated paint was being removed not only in designated areas but also outside, putting workers and the surrounding environment at risk.

What worsened the situation was the presence of a gentle breeze on that fateful day, which heightened the potential for asbestos particles to spread. Waste materials were left carelessly unattended and exposed to open air, further compounding the risks to workers and the general public.

Failure to Protect Workers

WorkSafeBC reported that the workers at Van Isle Hazmat were inadequately informed, trained, and supervised regarding the safe handling of asbestos, which is a known carcinogen. Asbestos is the leading cause of worker-related deaths in British Columbia, accounting for 61 of the 183 work-related fatalities reported in 2022, or about one-third of all such deaths that year.

In light of these alarming violations, a stop-work order was promptly issued against Van Isle Hazmat to halt activities until compliance with safety requirements was assured. The company worked quickly to address the issues, and the order was lifted approximately a week later.

Compliance Measures Enforced

A follow-up inspection conducted on November 7 confirmed that Van Isle Hazmat had taken the necessary steps to comply with WorkSafeBC’s safety regulations. The company was mandated to ensure that all asbestos waste, including contaminated clothing and cleanup equipment, was securely placed in sealed and clearly labeled containers. Moreover, increased supervision and retraining for workers were promised to avoid any future infractions.

A Track Record of Violations

Prior to this latest incident, Van Isle Hazmat had already faced penalties from WorkSafeBC on four separate occasions between July 2021 and December 2023, all concerning similar issues related to asbestos abatement and mold remediation. This trend raised questions about the company’s commitment to maintaining safety protocols and protecting both its workers and the community.

As the industry continues to grapple with the dangers posed by asbestos, the need for mandatory training and licensing for those involved in asbestos-abatement work is paramount. WorkSafeBC’s stringent oversight aims to protect not only the workers but also the families and communities living near affected sites.

Conclusion

The hefty fine of $61,471.52 levied against Van Isle Hazmat serves as a strong reminder of the critical importance of adhering to safety protocols in construction and demolition projects. Asbestos-related incidents remain a significant concern in British Columbia, and ensuring compliance with regulations is essential to safeguarding worker health and protecting our environment.