Sask. firm fined $420K for teen worker’s death

SASKATOON — A Saskatoon business has been fined $420,000 for breaking workplace safety rules in the death of a teen worker in 2015. Shercom Industries Inc. pleaded guilty to an occupational health and safety violation in provincial court.

Cade Sprackman, who was 18, died after his hand and arm were caught in the pully of a tire shredder conveyer belt. He died after paramedics arrived.

The Labour Relations and Workplace Safety Ministry said the company failed to have systems and maintenance at the plant that ensure the health, safety and welfare of workers.

Three other charges were stayed in court.

The government said employers need to provide training, equipment and supervision to maintain health and safety standards and employees should know their basic rights. “The right to know the hazards and how to prevent injuries, the right to participate in health and safety activities, and right to refuse work that you believe is unusually dangerous,” the province said Thursday.