County Winery Penalized After Serious Workplace Injury

Date: February 15, 2023

A Prince Edward County winery has been fined $50,000 following a workplace incident that left an employee seriously injured during construction activities in 2021.

Blocknote Canada Inc., which operates Redtail Vineyards in Consecon, was sentenced in Ontario Court of Justice earlier this month after pleading guilty to violations under provincial workplace safety legislation. The ruling stems from an incident involving a large stainless-steel fermentation vat that toppled during installation.

The court heard that the incident occurred while workers were assembling a 1,200-gallon vat weighing approximately 1,500 pounds at a newly constructed wine production facility along Loyalist Parkway. During the process, the vat was being supported by a forklift while its legs were installed.

According to findings from the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, unsafe practices were used during the operation. A supervisor left a forklift unattended while its load remained elevated, and a securing strap was removed before the vat was properly stabilized. These failures created a dangerous work environment that directly led to the incident.

As the vat shifted, one worker attempted to stop it from falling, but it tipped off the forklift, causing serious injuries. Investigators noted that no additional blocking or bracing was used to prevent movement once the strap was removed.

The investigation also revealed gaps in worker training and communication. The injured worker had not been provided with clear instructions or adequate supervision for the task, and no formal safe-work procedure was in place. Officials further noted that language barriers were not properly addressed during safety discussions, limiting the worker’s understanding of the risks involved.

In addition to the corporate fine, the supervising employee was fined $2,000 for their role in the incident. The penalties were imposed on February 3 by Justice of the Peace Jack Chiang.

The case underscores the critical importance of proper training, supervision, and adherence to safety protocols in high-risk work environments. Provincial officials continue to stress that employers are legally responsible for ensuring workers understand and can safely perform assigned tasks.

Following the incident, the winery provided extensive support to the injured worker and their family, including assistance with medical care, housing, education, immigration matters, and income support during recovery.

---