Image

Ontario Construction Worker Fined $1,500 for Not Using Fall Protection

March 20, 2014
An Ontario court has issued a $1,500 fine to a Toronto worker for his failure to use fall protection.

An Ontario court has issued a $1,500 fine to a Toronto worker for his failure to use fall protection.

While visiting a construction site in 2011, an Ontario Ministry of Labor inspector saw Christopher Schwaemmie jump from a tower hoist – which was about 50 feet above the ground – to a nearby roof. The inspector noticed that Schwaemmie was wearing a harness and lanyard, but the lanyard was not tied off to anything.

Schwaemmie pleaded guilty to failing to be adequately protected by a method of fall protection while exposed to a fall of more than three meters (9.8 feet).

Justice of the Peace Mary Ross Hendriks fined Schwaemmie $1,500 for a violation of Ontario’s Occupational Health and Safety Act.

Sponsored Recommendations

June 23, 2025
Learn about lone working laws in the US, key hazards and risks, and get actionable advice on how to keep your lone workers safe.
June 23, 2025
Chemical substitution can quickly get messy, with unclear steps and the risk of swapping one hazard for another. This checklist helps you avoid costly mistakes, prioritize which...
June 23, 2025
A mature approach to health and safety means making safety a core part of your culture, where everyone plays a role and performance is measured by more than just numbers. In this...
June 23, 2025
Behavior-based safety focuses on observing and encouraging safe behaviors to reduce workplace risks. Experts explain how strong safety culture, clear methods, and digital tools...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of EHS Today, create an account today!