WorkSafeNB investigating fatality at J.D. Irving sawmill in Sussex

WorkSafeNB is investigating a fatality at a Sussex sawmill owned by J.D. Irving Ltd., involvingthe death of a 50-year-old-man on Monday.

A spokesperson for WorkSafeNBsaid in a statement the man sustained a head injury in the chipper building at about1:10 p.m. on Feb. 29 andlater died in hospital.

WorkSafeNB said it has issued a stop-work order to ensure thescene of the incident will notbe disturbed and investigators are onsite.

Beverly Stears said in a statementthe investigation will helpWorksafeNB "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. IrvingLtd., 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 limitedabout 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 closedon Friday as there will be a memorial service for Greggat the Wallace Community Chapel.