Canadian Scrap Metal Recycler Fined for Violation

Triple M Metal Corp., Brampton, Ontario, Canada, has been fined $150,000 for a violation of Canada’s Occupational Health and Safety Act after a worker was killed.

According to a statement by the Canadian government, on June 9, 2009, at Triple M’s Brampton scrap yard, a shredder was shut down for maintenance. The shredder had a dome lid that could be opened for access to its interior. During the maintenance procedure, the dome lid was opened using a hydraulic system and secured in place with a pin. After maintenance work on the shredder, a worker removed the pin while a second worker activated the hydraulic controls so that the lid could close. The first worker went away and later the second worker was found trapped in the shredder between the dome lid and base.

A Canadian 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.

In addition to the fine, the court imposed a 25 percent 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.