On May 4, 2011 a worker at Credit Union Place inadvertently mixed two chemicals, producing a toxic chlorine gas.  The facility was evacuated and the worker underwent medical treatment for injuries sustained.  The findings from the subsequent Workers Compensation Board (WCB) investigation determined the chemical containers were not sufficiently labelled; safe work procedures were not in place; and the employer failed to provide adequate training and equipment to promote the safe use of these chemicals. 

On December 20, 2011, the City of Summerside pleaded guilty to one count of failing to ensure proper instruction and training for health and safety.  As a result, they were fined $500 and an additional penalty of $15,000 as a result of one violation under the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Act related to the May 4, 2011 chlorine gas incident at Credit Union Place.

“All serious workplace incidents are subject to investigation by the Workers Compensation Board so that appropriate measures can be taken to prevent further injury,” said Bill Reid, WCB Director of Occupational Health and Safety. “We recommended charges against the City of Summerside because our investigation revealed that the employer did not take reasonable precautions to ensure the health and safety of its workers.  In this particular case, the incident was very serious and could have had fatal results.”  

The $15,000 penalty imposed from this violation will be used by the Workers Compensation Board in education and prevention initiatives to promote health and safety in the workplace.

All employers are advised to be aware of their legislated responsibilities under the Occupational Health Safety Act.  The WCB has a variety of programs and services designed to assist workplaces in developing safety training and programs. Employers are encouraged to contact the WCB at 902-368-5697 with any safety questions or concerns.

Prince Edward Island’s Occupational Health and Safety Act is based on the Internal Responsibility System, which relies on everyone in the workplace to do their part to keep each other safe. More information about safety matters is available on the WCB website.