Coroner’s inquest makes recommendations to improve workplace safety

Release

Department of Justice and Public Safety

January 13, 2026

SAINT JOHN (GNB) – A jury at a coroner’s inquest has made recommendations aimed at improving workplace safety.

An inquest into the death of Matthew Brawn was held this week at the Saint John courthouse. Brawn died on July 18, 2024, following a workplace accident that took place while erecting wind turbines in the Springdale area of the Kings Rural District.

Coroners and juries can classify a death as a homicide, suicide, accident, natural causes or manner undetermined. The inquest found Brawn’s death was the result of an accident.

The six-member jury heard from six witnesses and made recommendations to the following organizations:

To Windturbine Construction Team:

•              Establish a clear and active on-site supervisor overseeing work.

•              Ensure morning safety meetings:

    -       Establish the scope of work and responsibilities of all workers.

    -       Review the equipment being used and its intended purpose.

    -       Identify the site supervisor and clarify the chain of command.

    -       Remind workers of their right to refuse unsafe work.

    -       Reinforce the consequences of not following established procedures.

    -       Emphasize the importance of active communication on the site to verify and confirm the safe use of equipment.

    -       Ensure that only competent employees operate equipment and that they are comfortable and properly trained to do so.

To Windturbine Construction Team and Iron Workers Union:

•              Remind and reiterate during training that the telehandler and other equipment must be used only as intended and within their rated capacities.

The chief coroner will forward these recommendations to the appropriate agencies for consideration and response. The response will be included in the chief coroner’s annual report for 2026.

An inquest is a formal court proceeding that allows for the public presentation of all evidence relating to a death. It does not make any finding of legal responsibility, nor does it assign blame. However, recommendations can be made, aimed at preventing deaths under similar circumstances in the future.

 

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