Worker came into contact with 'energized equipment'
An arborist has died after being electrocuted while working in Mactaquac, N.B., in an incident now under investigation.
The fatality occurred May 27 and was confirmed by WorkSafeNB the following day, according to CBC News.
The worker, employed by Heartwood Tree Care, was climbing a utility pole when the incident occurred. Early information indicates the arborist came into contact with energized electrical equipment, though the exact circumstances remain unclear, according to the report.
WorkSafeNB acknowledged the fatality and extended condolences. “Our condolences go out to the worker’s family, friends, and colleagues,” spokesperson Lynn Meahan-Carson said in a statement cited by CBC.
Utility and police response
N.B. Power confirmed that the individual “was found deceased after coming into contact with energized equipment,” spokesperson Elizabeth Fraser told the publication. The utility noted the worker was neither an employee nor a contractor of the organization.
The RCMP is investigating to determine what led to the fatal incident. N.B. Power said it will co-operate fully with authorities as the investigation proceeds.
Fraser also issued a public safety reminder, noting the risks tied to electrical infrastructure. “We remind the public that our electrical infrastructure can be extremely dangerous, and we urge everyone to stay clear of substations and power lines,” she said, as reported by CBC.
Both WorkSafeNB and N.B. Power have said no further details will be released while the investigation remains active.
