Electro-Pack fined $50,000 after worker injured unjamming machine

Electro-Pack Inc., a Toronto manufacturer of packaging, was fined $50,000 for a violation of the Occupational Health and Safety Act after a worker was injured.

On December 5, 2009, a worker was using a machine that forms plastic using heat and a press. The worker noticed a jam in the machine and reached in to remove it. The machine cycled while the worker’s hand was still inside. The worker’s hand was seriously injured.

A Ministry of Labour investigation found that the machine was inadequately guarded.

Electro-Pack Inc. pleaded guilty to failing to ensure that the machine was equipped with a guard or other device to prevent access to the moving part.

The fine was imposed by Justice of the Peace Lynette Stethem. In addition to the fine, the court imposed a 25-percent victim fine surcharge, as required by the Provincial Offences Act. The surcharge is credited to a special provincial government fund to assist victims of crime.