A Woodstock, Ont., car dealership has been fined $125,000 after a worker was fatally injured in a fall from a stepladder. The conviction was handed down on May 24, 2024, in the Ontario Court of Justice following a guilty plea by 2079608 Ontario Inc., operating as Woodstock Ford.
The incident occurred on August 9, 2022, at the dealership’s automotive shop on Dundas Street West. According to the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, the worker was drying the roof of a vehicle in the detailing bay when they slipped and fell from the top cap of a stepladder to the concrete floor below. The fall resulted in fatal injuries.
A ministry investigation revealed that the stepladder used by the worker was of inadequate height, posing a fall hazard. The work could have been performed safely with a ladder or platform designed for the required working height, as specified by the Occupational Health and Safety Act.
Justice of the Peace Cuthbertson imposed the fine, along with a 25 per cent victim fine surcharge. Crown Counsel Daniel Kleiman represented the prosecution. The surcharge will be directed to a provincial fund supporting victims of crime.
The ministry’s findings underscore the importance of using appropriate equipment for tasks at elevated heights to prevent workplace accidents. Employers are reminded of their duty to ensure safe working conditions for their employees, as stipulated under section 25(2)(h) of the Occupational Health and Safety Act.
