Victoria Business Faces Hefty Fine for Safety Violations

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News Summary

Van Isle Hazmat Inc. has been fined over $61,470 for serious safety violations regarding asbestos handling in Victoria, highlighting urgent worker safety concerns.

Victoria Business Faces Hefty Fine for Safety Violations

An alarming situation has emerged in Victoria as the asbestos and mould removal company, Van Isle Hazmat Inc., has been slapped with a staggering fine of over $61,470 by WorkSafeBC. This penalty arises from serious safety violations observed at one of their work sites, raising concerning questions about worker safety and the handling of hazardous materials within the province.

Asbestos: A Leading Cause of Work-Related Deaths

The dire consequences of asbestos exposure cannot be overstated, as it continues to be the leading cause of work-related fatalities in British Columbia (BC). In 2022 alone, 61 deaths were attributed to asbestos, which represented approximately 33% of all work-related deaths in the province that year. These alarming statistics underline the urgent need for strict adherence to safety protocols, especially by companies involved in asbestos abatement.

Repeated Violations Raise Red Flags

WorkSafeBC’s investigation into Van Isle Hazmat revealed a troubling pattern of repeated and high-risk violations in their management of asbestos-containing materials. The company failed to prevent the spread of asbestos dust and debris, neglecting essential procedures that safeguard both workers and the surrounding community. Such negligence not only puts employees at risk but also threatens public health.

Among the numerous shortcomings identified were the lack of critical information and training provided to workers on how to handle hazardous materials safely. Furthermore, required precautions that would have minimized the chances of disturbing hazardous materials were not implemented. Instead, the company allowed conditions that could lead to exposure, which is dangerously irresponsible.

Stop-Work Orders and Regulatory Action

In light of these serious concerns, WorkSafeBC issued a stop-work order at the Victoria site, indicating an immediate halt to any operations due to the glaring safety deficiencies. The company did not ensure that hazardous materials and waste were placed in sealed and labeled containers, violating established guidelines critical for the proper handling of asbestos.

A Concerning History of Non-Compliance

This is not the first time Van Isle Hazmat has faced repercussions for safety violations. Since 2021, the company has racked up a total of five fines for similar infractions, accumulating more than $94,135 in penalties. This pattern of non-compliance raises significant concerns about the company’s commitment to worker safety and legal obligations.

Upcoming Regulatory Changes to Improve Safety

In response to ongoing safety issues, new regulations concerning asbestos removal, transportation, and disposal are set to take effect on January 1. These changes will require contractors to obtain a license to operate, and individuals involved in asbestos abatement must complete mandatory safety training and certification. Such measures are imperative to ensure that those in the industry are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to handle hazardous materials safely.

Increased Penalties and Inspections

Amid rising operational costs, the Capital Regional District (CRD) has recently raised garbage tipping fees and increased fines for improper asbestos disposal. The trash tipping fee now stands at $155 per tonne, while the controlled waste and asbestos fees have been increased to $214 per tonne. Notably, fines for improper disposal have soared from $200 to $1,000 per infraction, emphasizing the serious consequences of non-compliance.

During the first nine months of 2022, WorkSafeBC conducted numerous inspections, totaling 1,019 inspections and issuing 1,053 orders for health and safety violations. This level of enforcement highlights a concerted effort aimed at preventing asbestos exposure through stringent regulations and oversight.

A Call for Greater Accountability

WorkSafeBC continues to stress the importance of consultation, education, and enforcement in the prevention of asbestos exposure. Additionally, an online registry for licensed employers has been launched to improve worker safety in the asbestos abatement industry, aiming to establish better accountability within the sector.

With asbestos having been widely used in construction until the 1990s, the implications for public health remain significant. As efforts intensify to regulate and punish non-compliance, the hope is that such measures will lead to safer practices and ultimately reduce the risk of asbestos-related illnesses and fatalities among workers in BC.