AIM Faces OSHA Charges Following Subcontractor’s Death

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): In a hard-hitting revelation, Saint John-based company, AIM, is under the spotlight of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), facing four charges pertaining to the tragic demise of subcontractor Darrell Richards. The 60-year-old lost his life on July 1, 2022, succumbing to injuries he sustained at the company’s facility.

Unveiling the Charges

The charges highlight a serious neglect of safety protocols. AIM stands accused of not informing about the potential dangers associated with a calender roll, a piece of equipment used in fabricating sheets of material. This failure to disseminate critical safety information forms the crux of the first charge.

Further allegations against the company include not familiarizing employees with the handling and disposal hazards of equipment. This lapse in communication and training forms the second charge, painting a picture of a work environment where safety took a backseat.

Thirdly, AIM is charged with not providing necessary safety information, a crucial component in the prevention of workplace accidents. Lastly, the company is accused of lack of competent supervision of work, a key factor in maintaining a safe and hazard-free work environment.

Legal Proceedings Ahead

In the wake of these charges, a trial has been scheduled from March 4 to 6. In an interesting turn of events, AIM finds itself embroiled in another unrelated OSHA charge stemming from an incident on December 3, 2021, where a truck’s boom at the Point Lepreau nuclear plant made contact with a power line. Thankfully, no injuries were reported. This trial has now been slated for March 6.

Operations at a Standstill

Compounding the company’s woes, their operations have been on hold since September 14, following a substantial scrap metal fire. This led to the revocation of the facility’s license on December 29. The company has been given a 90-day window to appeal against the revocation order.

The charges against AIM shed light on the importance of compliance with OSHA regulations. As the matter heads to court, the implications of these charges could be a wake-up call for industries across the board to prioritize safety over all else.

 Courtesy: www.bnnbreaking.com