This site will look much better in a browser that supports web standards, but it is accessible to any browser or Internet device.

WorkSafeBC

news room banner

Sawmill and wood processing operations inspection update

Richmond, B.C., July 26, 2012 — WorkSafeBC has updated the status of status of orders issued in Phase I of the combustible dust strategy.

A directive order was issued to all sawmill employers on April 26, 2012. WorkSafeBC officers are ensuring that sawmill employers are in compliance as outlined in that order.

Phase I summary
 
Directive Order Status Count (sawmill locations)
Completed
134
Outstanding
20
Rescinded
19
Total
173

To date, an additional 411 orders were issued to sawmill employers as a result of worksite inspections conducted in Phase I of the strategy. Of those orders, 83 are outstanding.

Phase II

Phase II of the strategy began July 5, 2012 and includes similar wood processing operations where dust accumulation could be a safety hazard.

Phase II summary
 
Total locations
271
Transmitted inspections
16
Total orders issued
84
Orders outstanding
80
Orders by category  
Dust accumulations
- OHS 5.81 and WCA 115(1)(a)
17
Unsafe compressed air use
- OHS 4.42
0
Dust collection system issues
- OHS 5.71(3) and OHS 5.61
12
Ventilation required
- OHS 5.71
0
Other regulations
55

All current information on inspections and investigations is available on the Sawmills — Inspections and industry resources page.


For information, please contact:

Donna Freeman
Director, Media and Government Relations
WorkSafeBC
604 276-3141 or 604 802-1127
donna.freeman@worksafebc.com