Worker dies after fall from Hamilton pier

A worker has died after falling from a Hamilton pier into Hamilton Harbour in what provincial authorities are treating as a possible workplace fatality.

The incident happened Monday at Pier 14 while the worker was removing snow near the end of the dock at Ontario Shipyards Inc, Hamilton police said, according to a CBC report.

“A piece of equipment entered the water” and the worker went in as well, the police said. Emergency crews including police, fire and paramedics responded to the scene and attempted to resuscitate the man.

The worker—who has not been publicly identified—was taken to hospital without vital signs and later pronounced dead, paramedic commander Dave Thompson said, according to CBC.

Police said first responders “tried to save the worker’s life,” but he could not be revived.

Provincial OHS investigation

Ontario’s Ministry of Labour, Immigration and Skills Development has launched an investigation into what it described in a statement as a “possible workplace fatality.” Ontario Shipyards is a Hamilton-based ship repair facility.

The ministry has not released further details about the circumstances of the incident, the type of equipment involved or the worker’s job role. 

Meanwhile, Ontario Shipyards said in a statement on its website, “We strive to exceed industry standards for quality, health and safety.”

Shipyard hazards, worker safety

Shipyard workers face a multitude of hazards in the workplace, and work done at height increases the risk of injury according to the CDC.

CDC notes that other workplace hazards that are found in shipyards include:

• Chemical hazards include:
  • Exposure to asbestos
  • Welding fumes
  • Metals
  • A variety of paints, solvents and fuels
• Physical hazards include:
  • Noise exposure
  • Extreme temperatures
  • Vibration
  • Awkward body positions
  • Risk of musculoskeletal injuries
• Hot work, confined space entry, exposure to hazardous air and work done at height all increase the risk of injury.

The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) notes that employers have a responsibility to ensure workers’ safety in the workplace. An employer must:

• Establish and maintain a health and safety committee, or cause workers to select at least one health and safety representative.
• Take every reasonable precaution to ensure the workplace is safe.
• Train workers about any potential and actual hazards and how to work safely (e.g., how to use, handle, store, and dispose of hazardous substances and how to handle emergencies).
• Make sure workers know how to use and handle the equipment safely and properly.
• Make sure workers use any necessary personal protective equipment, clothing, and devices.
• Report all critical injuries to the government department responsible for occupational health and safety..
• Appoint a competent supervisor who sets the standards for performance, understands their health and safety responsibilities, and who ensures safe working conditions are always observed.