$180,000 For Locate Problem

This item is a follow up to our feature article in the January 2010 newsletter (still available on our website in the Utility Locate section).  Our article was focused on the importance of also having private locates, in addition to 1Call.  The article featured some incidents which highlighted the need for private locates at all sites, including residential properties.  The Ministry of Labour released an article in OHS Canada Magazine on November 2 related to one of the incidents we cited, indicating that the company was convicted and fined $180,000 (plus 25% victim surcharge) for charges related to not having locates.  In a separate conviction for the same incident, the supervisor was personally fined $12,000.  The mistake of not having a private locator at a site has not only cost a life, but also some very significant fines.  Please read the article by clicking this link.