Erie Greenhouse Structures of Tillsonburg has been fined $73,000 after a welder lost most of a finger when it was pinched in a brake press.
A Ministry of Labour investigation determined a welder was using the brake press to form metal into a tobacco bin when a finger was pinched in the machine's pinch point.
The incident happened in June 2012
The ministry reported the press was not maintained in good condition and that two of three methods of operation were not working. As well, it was determined that the machine was not guarded at its pinch point as required.
There was also an administrative contravention as a workplace that employs between 20 and 49 workers must have a joint health and safety committee and have at least two workers on the committee. Erie employed 22 at the time.
A charge against a supervisor is pending and may proceed to trial in September.
