Nipawin backhoe operator who caused fatal explosion must pay $28,000

A backhoe operator who was found responsible for an explosion that killed two men in Saskatchewan has been fined thousands of dollars and must pay compensation to the victims’ families. 

Lorry Riemer was demolishing buildings in downtown Nipawin in 2008 when he snagged a natural gas riser with his equipment. 

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That caused gas to seep into a butcher shop, causing an explosion that killed two men working for Riemer and injuring several others. 

Provincial court Judge Barry Morgan convicted Riemer earlier this year of two workplace violations under the province’s Occupational Health and Safety Act. 

On Wednesday, Morgan fined Riemer $10,000 for each count, plus two $4,000 surcharges for the victims’ families for a total of $28,000. 

Morgan says no amount of money will compensate the families for their loss, but he wanted to send a message of deterrence to prevent similar tragedies.