Lumber company faces occupational health and safety charges

Cottle’s Island Lumber Company Limited of Summerford has been charged with multiple alleged violations of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Occupational Health and Safety Act.

The charges stem from workplace compliance inspections and alleged non-compliance with occupational health and safety orders issued by the province in September and November 2024.

According to the Occupational Health and Safety Division, the allegations involve a number of workplace safety requirements, including the safe storage of hazardous substances, emergency eye and skin washing facilities, workplace cleanliness and sanitation, and the use of hearing, eye and face protection.

The company is also accused of failing to meet requirements related to personal protective equipment, safeguarding hazardous machinery and equipment, and protecting machinery during maintenance work.

Other allegations involve guardrails on elevated work platforms, the safe storage and handling of compressed gas cylinders, compliance with regulatory orders within required timelines and having a worker certified in emergency first aid available.

Cottle’s Island Lumber Company Limited is scheduled to make its first court appearance on Sept. 15, 2026, at Provincial Court in Gander.