The lack of protection around an animal feed mixer cost the life of a foreign worker at Ferme Norlou in Saint-Luc-de-Vincennes, Mauricie, a year ago.
This is one of the conclusions of the Commission on Standards, Equity, Health and Safety at Work (CNESST) on this tragedy, which now serves to raise awareness.
At 6 a.m. on October 19, 2022, the body of a foreign worker was found lifeless in a blender at Norlou Farm.
On the day of the accident, the worker was preparing rations for the cows using a blender to mix the various nutrients.
While trying to remove food stuck in the doorway, his clothing came into contact with a paddle on the auger. He was pulled into the moving machine and his body was pressed against the wall.
The CNESST raises several deficiencies such as: B. the lack of protection on the mixer door and the marking of dangers. A notice on the machine about the risks associated with using the blender was illegible.
The owner of Ferme Norlou quickly complied with CNESST requirements and added protectors.
“After the accident, the employer carried out a risk analysis and added rigid protectors. In their situation, they protected the top of the mixer, access to the door and the conveyor belt to prevent access to the screws,” explained Mathieu Ruel, inspector at CNESST.
The report’s conclusions will be sent to the Union of Agricultural Producers and Quebec Dairy Producers.
“It’s an environment with lots of different risks, moving parts and working at heights. These are small businesses that operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. So it’s certain that agricultural producers have a lot of them. They must work with their employees to identify, remediate and control risks. It is really the source,” emphasized Robert Larouche, head of the department.
To sensitize the next generation of farmers, the investigation report will also be sent to training institutions to prevent further fatal accidents.