Oil Company Fined $114,000 After Workplace Explosion Injures Worker

An oil and gas exploration company, Artis Exploration Ltd., has been fined $114,000 following a workplace explosion that seriously injured a worker. The incident occurred on May 10, 2024, at an oil battery site in Kneeland County. The company pleaded guilty to one count under Alberta’s Occupational Health and Safety Code related to hazard assessment and control, with all other charges withdrawn.

The court imposed the fine, which includes the victim fine surcharge, after the explosion and subsequent fire led to the worker’s injuries. Artis Exploration and the Crown have up to 30 days to appeal the conviction or penalty.

Separately, Synergy Well Servicing Ltd. has been charged with four counts under occupational health and safety legislation related to the same incident. The company is scheduled to appear in Red Deer Court of Justice on November 18.

Alberta’s occupational health and safety laws are designed to establish basic health and safety rules for workplaces across the province, providing guidance, rights, and protections for both employers and workers. Charges under these laws can be laid when workplace safety rules are violated, resulting in fatalities or serious injuries.