Braya Renewable Fuels (Newfoundland) GP Incorporated and Lorneville Mechanical Contractors Limited have been charged with multiple violations under Newfoundland and Labrador’s Occupational Health and Safety Act and Regulations.
As reported by the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, the charges follow an investigation by the Department of Digital Government and Service NL’s Occupational Health and Safety Division.
The investigation was prompted by a fatal flash explosion and fire at the Come By Chance refinery in September 2022.
One of the eight injured workers later died from their injuries.
Braya Renewable Fuels faces several charges, including failing to provide and maintain necessary equipment, systems, and tools to ensure a safe workplace.
The company is also charged with failing to provide adequate information, instruction, training, supervision, and facilities for workplace safety.
Further charges include not familiarizing workers and supervisors with workplace hazards and not ensuring that contracted employers and workers complied with Occupational Health and Safety legislation.
Braya Renewable Fuels is also accused of not implementing an Occupational Health and Safety Program, not following safe work procedures, and not providing effective personal protective equipment.
Lorneville Mechanical Contractors Limited has been charged with failing to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of its workers.
The company is also charged with not preventing its undertakings from exposing other persons to hazards and not following safe work procedures.
The charges highlight the severity of the violations and the legal responsibilities of companies to ensure workplace safety and compliance with health and safety regulations.
The first court appearance for both Braya Renewable Fuels and Lorneville Mechanical Contractors is scheduled for August 8, 2024, at Provincial Court in Clarenville.
This hearing will be a crucial step in addressing the legal outcomes of the violations and determining the subsequent legal actions.
