Toronto Worker Dies at Scarborough Community Centre
A tragic incident occurred at a community center in Scarborough, Toronto, where a recreation worker lost their life while on duty. This event has raised significant concerns regarding worker safety, particularly as the individual was reportedly working alone at the time.
Incident Overview
The incident took place at the Oakridge Community Recreation Centre, located near Pharmacy Avenue and Danforth Avenue. Emergency services were alerted when the worker was discovered unresponsive within the center. Despite immediate medical assistance, the individual was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police Involvement
The Toronto Police Service (TPS) attended to the situation after receiving a medical call. A spokesperson from TPS confirmed that the incident is classified as a medical matter and is not deemed criminal. They mentioned that the employee’s identity has not been disclosed for privacy reasons.
Union Concerns
CUPE Local 79, the union representing municipal workers, expressed deep sorrow over the loss and pointed out the troubling nature of the incident. According to their statements, the worker was alone during their shift, raising questions about compliance with the City of Toronto’s Working Alone policy.
Working Alone Policy
This policy is designed to protect employees by ensuring they have immediate access to assistance in emergencies. CUPE Local 79 emphasized that the worker’s solitary conditions during the shift could indicate a failure to implement crucial safety measures.
- The Working Alone policy mandates assessments of risks.
- It requires maintaining communication procedures among staff.
- It ensures that workers can summon help quickly if needed.
The union expressed that no worker should find themselves isolated without immediate support. They reiterated that worker safety is non-negotiable, asserting the importance of coming home safely at the end of each shift.
Looking Forward
This tragic incident not only mourns the loss of a dedicated worker but also calls for urgent examination of safety protocols. CUPE Local 79 plans to collaborate with the City of Toronto to strengthen these safeguards and ensure adequate protection for all workers in the future.
