By Dave Branco

mining deaths

BC mining fatalities prompt calls for stricter safety regulations and contractor training

Jan 28, 2026 | 3:18 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – A series of workplace fatalities at mining sites in British Columbia has sparked demands for tougher safety regulations. Opposition MLA Sheldon Clare is advocating for enhanced contractor training programs and stricter government enforcement.

Two of the tragic incidents took place last November at Taseko’s Gibraltar Mine and at Elk Valley Resources in Sparwood. The most recent death occurred just last week at the Cariboo Gold Project in Wells. Clare notes that this incident involved a contractor who may not have received sufficient safety training.

While Clare acknowledges that accidents can occur even with safety measures in place, he stresses that solid protocols can greatly reduce human error. He is pushing for increased government audits and enforcement to ensure compliance with safety standards.

Clare highlights the importance of transparent investigations following any incidents, asserting that all parties involved, companies, unions, workers, and the government, must be able to trust the process.

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He insists that follow-up audits and surprise inspections are crucial for preventing dangerous conditions from being overlooked at job sites, emphasizing that everyone deserves to return home safely to their families after a day at work.