Burnaby biotech company behind free COVID-19 tests fined $26K over worker safety
WorkSafeBC has fined a Burnaby-based biotech company over lab machinery safety issues that could have harmed workers.
Artron BioResearch Inc. was handed the fine totalling more than $26,000 on Dec. 30, 2024, after an inspection.
The company manufactures several antibody and antigen tests for consumers. It produced many COVID-19 antigen tests distributed free to consumers via drug stores in B.C.
WorkSafeBC issued the fine because of problems with safeguarding and locking out machinery. The safety watchdog said the company failed to enact safeguards to prevent workers from coming into contact with hazardous power transmission or points of operation.
WorkSafeBC also said Artron failed to ensure energy isolating devices were secured in a safe position.
“No written procedures for de-energization and lockout had been developed, and machines for labelling, heat-sealing, and packaging lacked safeguards,” it said.
The inspection noted the violations were both “repeated” and “high risk,” leading to the $26,000 fine.
Daily Hive has reached out to Artron for comment.