The CNESST, Quebec’s workplace safety board, released a report on Dec. 19 regarding a fatal explosion at a fuel distributor in St-Roch-de-l’Achigan, Que. that occurred on Jan. 12. The explosion resulted in the death of three people, including a welder who was sealing cracks in a fuel tanker truck, and two secretaries working in an adjacent office.
According to the report, the welder’s tool sparked and came into contact with gas vapour, causing the explosion and ensuing fire. The CNESST inspectors highlighted that the company and the welding contractor should have verified that the tanker was empty of fuel before work started. Additionally, they noted that the risk of danger was increased due to the fact that the welding was done indoors.
The CNESST’s legal department is currently analyzing the inspection report to determine whether the board should issue fines in response to the safety violations.