South Okanagan company fined after worker struck buried electrical cable

PENTICTON – A recent Worksafe B.C. ruling has resulted in a fine levied against a South Okanagan gravel pit.

A Westhills Aggregates excavator operator struck a buried electrical cable while digging a trench, resulting in the worker receiving an electrical shock from the severed cable.

Worksafe B.C. determined the firm failed to ensure it had accurately determined the location of all underground utilities prior to excavating with mechanical equipment.

Considered a high-risk violation, a fine of $19,606.41 was levied against the company on June 7.

Worksafe B.C. also determined two workers were working inside the excavation to a depth of four metres, failing to ensure the excavation was sloped, shored, benched and supported as required, also considered a high-risk violation.

Westhills has requested a review of the penalty. 

K’ul Group officials, managers of the gravel pit, could not be reached for comment.

No information about the health status of the worker — either at the time of the incident or since — was offered. 

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