Scene of Bluewater Lineman Electrocution October, 2012. BlackburnNews.com file photoScene of Bluewater Lineman Electrocution October, 2012. BlackburnNews.com file photo
Sarnia

Bluewater Power Fined In Lineman Electrocution

Bluewater Power's chief executive says they went back to the basics and retrained following a tragic incident that has scarred the utility.

47-year-old lineman Mike Leach was electrocuted while fixing downed power lines in Bright's Grove in the aftermath of superstorm Sandy October 31, 2012.

Bluewater Power pleaded guilty Monday to failing to ensure a documented job plan was performed before work on a downed line started.

Particulars included the failure to ensure rubber gloves were worn to protect from electrical shock or burns.

Utility CEO Janice McMichael-Dennis says the tragedy was a powerful, life altering reminder to follow all rules and procedures.

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Bluewater Power was fined $120,000 plus surcharge fees in provincial offenses court Monday.

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