Worker Dies as Result of Head Injury


Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada 03 March 2016 -- (From CBC News) -- WorkSafeNB is investigating a fatality at a Sussex facility owned by J.D. Irving Ltd., involving the death of a 50-year-old-man on Monday.

A spokesperson for WorkSafeNB said in a statement the man sustained a head injury in the chipper building at about 1:10 p.m. on Feb. 29 and later died in hospital.

WorkSafeNB said it has issued a stop-work order to ensure the scene of the incident will not be disturbed and investigators are on site.

Beverly Stears said in a statement the investigation will help WorksafeNB "determine how the fatality may have been prevented and whether there were any violations of the Occupational Health and Safety Act or its regulations."

Mary Keith, spokesperson for J.D. Irving Ltd., identified the worker as William Gregg, an employee at the mill for 26 years.

"Our thoughts and our prayers go out to William's wife and their two daughters," said Keith.

Keith said details are limited about the circumstances surrounding the accident.

"Mr. Gregg was seen by his co-workers just prior to the accident and at this time there is no obvious or apparent cause," she said.

"Sussex Sawmill has undertaken is own investigation," and is co-operating with WorkSafeNB.

She said the Sussex site will be closed on Friday as there will be a memorial service for Gregg at the Wallace Community Chapel.