Triple M Metal Corp. Fined $150,000 After Worker Killed

Brampton, ON - Triple M Metal Corp., a Brampton company that recycles metal, was fined $150,000 for a violation of the Occupational Health and Safety Act after a worker was killed.

On June 9, 2009, at the company's Brampton scrap yard, a machine made for shredding metal was shut down for maintenance. The shredder had a dome lid that could be opened for access to its interior. The dome lid was opened using a hydraulic system and secured in place with a pin. After maintenance work on the shredder, one worker removed the pin while a second worker activated the hydraulic controls so that the lid could close. The first worker went away and some time later the second worker was found trapped in the shredder, between the dome lid and base.

A Ministry of Labour investigation found that during the shredder's maintenance, there were no guards or devices in place to prevent access to the shredder's pinch point. Additionally, the company did not have a procedure to ensure that the shredder was clear of equipment and workers before its lid was closed.

Triple M Metal Corp. pleaded guilty to failing to ensure that the shredder was equipped with a guard or other device to prevent access to its pinch point.

The fine was imposed by Justice of the Peace Michael Barnes.  In addition to the fine, the court imposed a 25-per-cent victim fine surcharge, as required by the Provincial Offences Act. The surcharge is credited to a special provincial government fund to assist victims of crime.

Court Information at a Glance

Location:                    Ontario Court of Justice

                                    5 Ray Lawson Blvd.

                                    Brampton, ON

Judge:                         Justice of the Peace Michael Barnes

                                   

Date of Sentencing:    April 26, 2011

Defendants:                Triple M Metal Corp., carrying on business in limited partnership
as Triple M Metal LP

Matter:                       Occupational Health and Safety

Conviction:                Ontario Regulation 851, Section 25

Crown Counsel:         Line Forestier

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