The owner of Cottle’s Island Lumber in Summerford expressed her intention to contest the 14 charges brought against her company in court. She emphasized that all identified issues have been rectified and that no injuries occurred due to the violations. The charges, all related to breaches of the Occupational Health and Safety Act, were lodged in provincial court in Gander.
Among the charges, six pertain to the improper storage and handling of hazardous substances, equipment, and machinery. Additionally, seven charges address issues such as the absence of emergency washing facilities, inadequate provision of personal protective gear, cleanliness and sanitation concerns, lack of guardrails on elevated work platforms, and the absence of a worker certified in emergency first aid.
Furthermore, one charge relates to the company’s failure to comply with a regulatory order. The inspections occurred in September 2024, November 2024, March 2025, and January 2026. Owner Lorie Philpott assured CBC News that all identified issues have been resolved following the latest inspection.
Philpott emphasized the company’s strong commitment to health and safety, highlighting minimal worksite injuries and emphasizing the importance of maintaining a safe and positive work environment. Despite facing challenges during a slow business period, she remains optimistic about the company’s future.
Cottle’s Island Lumber, a business with a 57-year history, has never experienced a workplace fatality. Philpott mentioned that the company not only serves the local market but also exports its products to countries like the United States, Chile, and Japan.
The provincial government confirmed that no workplace injuries were linked to the violations identified during a routine inspection in September 2024. While corrective measures were taken, not all orders were fully addressed by January 2026, leading to enforcement action under the Occupational Health and Safety Act.
The matter is scheduled for a hearing at provincial court in Gander on September 15. Government spokesperson Tina Newhook refrained from providing further comments due to the ongoing legal proceedings.