Safety Training Under Scrutiny in Trial of Hedge-Trimming Incident

A trial examining the circumstances surrounding the death of a young employee at Best Green Hedges has raised serious questions about workplace safety training practices. On May 5, 2023, Nicholas Chenier, a 20-year-old foreman, tragically lost his life after being electrocuted while using a hedge trimmer that came into contact with a 16,000-volt power line. Testimony presented in court revealed alarming gaps in safety training provided to employees.

During the proceedings on Tuesday, Marc-André Gosselin, who worked alongside Chenier, stated that he had not received adequate training prior to the incident. Gosselin, who testified through a French interpreter, described how he operated hedge-trimming tools while standing on ladders at Best Green Hedges, noting that he had prior experience from his time working in Quebec. Gosselin claimed that the only training he received from supervisor Steven Deans was verbal and lacked specificity regarding safety protocols around electrical hazards.

According to an agreed statement of facts, Chenier was using a battery-powered hedge trimmer and an aluminum ladder when the fatal incident occurred at a residential property on Jean Park Road in Manotick. Despite the presence of significant electrical hazards, Gosselin indicated that he was not required to complete a basic health and safety course, nor did he receive the company’s Occupational Safety Training Outline 2013 until after Chenier’s death. This outline is essential for informing employees about their rights, responsibilities, and safety protocols in the workplace.

The Crown attorney, Anne Fitzpatrick, argued that Deans displayed a “reckless disregard” for Chenier’s safety by directing him to work under hazardous conditions without appropriate training. Deans has been charged with criminal negligence causing death and has pleaded not guilty.

Gosselin further elaborated on the training he did receive, claiming that Deans offered only verbal and visual instruction on ladder positioning and tool operation. He stated that no training was provided on how to safely work around energized power lines, although informational stickers on the tools served as reminders of the necessary precautions.

The courtroom heard Gosselin affirm that there was an understanding among employees that they could refuse unsafe work. “This was the culture at Best Green, that everyone would be working safely?” defense lawyer Mark Ertel asked. Gosselin responded affirmatively, emphasizing a culture of safety within the company.

Despite the emphasis on safety, Gosselin noted that helpers were not allowed to work from ladders during their initial employment stages. They were typically limited to less hazardous tasks until they gained sufficient experience. This apprenticeship-style training system has raised further questions about the adequacy of safety measures at Best Green Hedges.

As the trial progresses, attention remains focused on the responsibilities of training and safety oversight in the landscaping industry. Cross-examination of Gosselin is expected to continue, with the court examining the broader implications of the case for workplace safety standards in Ontario. The outcome may have lasting effects on how companies implement safety training and manage employee risks in high-hazard environments.