Calgary (Rajeev Sharma): An Alberta roofing contractor has been ordered to pay a $200,000 fine following a workplace fatality involving a worker who fell through a roof at a construction site in Edmonton in December 2023.
Albatross Roofing Ltd. pleaded guilty on October 28 in the Edmonton Court of Justice to one charge under the province’s Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Act. The charge relates to the company’s failure, as an employer, to ensure the health and safety of a worker. All other charges against the company were withdrawn.
The fatal incident occurred on December 11, 2023, when a worker fell through a roof while working at the Edmonton construction site and died as a result.
Court orders fine and regulatory supervision
As part of the sentence, the court imposed a $200,000 penalty, which includes the victim fine surcharge. The company will also be subject to enhanced regulatory supervision for a period of two years.
Both Albatross Roofing Ltd. and the Crown have 30 days to appeal the conviction or the penalty.
OHS rules aim to protect Alberta workers
Alberta’s Occupational Health and Safety legislation establishes workplace safety requirements and outlines the responsibilities of employers to maintain safe working conditions.
The framework also provides workers with rights and protections, while offering employers guidance on preventing workplace hazards and reducing the risk of injuries.
Authorities may pursue charges under OHS legislation when violations of workplace safety requirements lead to a worker’s death or serious injury. The case highlights the legal consequences employers can face when they fail to meet their obligations to protect workers.
