Mine operator fined after worker is hurt by falling rock

Wesdome Gold Mines Ltd. was fined $100,000 for failing to ensure required safety measures were carried out at its Eagle River Gold Mine in Wawa. The worker was injured on September 22, 2024, and the company was convicted on August 21, 2026, after a guilty plea.

• What happened: Loose rock fell from the wall of an underground raise while a worker was scaling it from a platform.
• What the investigation found: The raise had inadequate ground support, with about five straps, 14 rock bolts and 18 pieces of rebar missing. The raise was also too narrow, making it difficult to install rock bolts.
• Penalty: The court imposed a 25% victim fine surcharge in addition to the fine.