hand injuries to a worker.
On October 29, 2001, a worker for Canadian Speakertech was working with
two other workers on a machine to cut wood pieces. Part of the machine's
operational cycle was automated and part required use of a hold button by an
operator. The worker was injured by a saw blade when the button was used in an
untimely manner so that the machine improperly commenced its cycle.
Canadian Speakertech Inc. pleaded guilty, as an employer, to failing to
take every precaution reasonable in the circumstances for the protection of a
worker. This was contrary to section 25(2)(h) of the Occupational Health and
Safety Act.
The fine was imposed by Justice of the Peace M. Barnes of the Ontario
Court of Justice in Brampton. In addition to the fine against the company, the
court imposed a 25-per-cent victim fine surcharge, as required by the
Provincial Offences Act.