FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. – WorkSafeBC has fined BC Hydro $710,488.79 for safety violations at the Site C hydroelectric megaproject.

In a penalty imposed on Sept. 12, 2023 and released to the public this week the safety regulator observed damaged ventilation equipment and deficiencies with the employer’s practices to address welding fume hazards at an inspection of BC Hydro’s powerhouse.

“In addition, the subcontracted firm conducting the welding work did not have an adequate exposure control plan in place for welding fumes,” the penalty stated.

As the prime contractor of a multiple-employer workplace, the penalty said, the employer failed to establish and maintain a system of regulatory compliance, a high-risk violation and also failed to keep up-to-date written procedures for providing first aid at the worksite, both repeat violations.

The $16-billion megaproject, which began building in 2015, announced last month it has completed 80 per cent of construction and is on track for filling in 2024 and project completion in 2025.