WorkSafe announced on Monday (December 1) that ten companies and three people have been blamed for failing to fulfill their security duties in the 2019 White Island volcanic eruption in New Zealand that killed 22 people. Company ensuring compliance with occupational safety standards.
Also read:New Zealand: Launch of criminal investigation after volcanic eruption that killed 14 people
The company explored the reasons why 47 people, mostly Australian tourists, were on the volcanic island when it erupted on December 9, 2019. A few weeks ago the alert level for the volcano was raised and Work Safe director Bill Parks said investigations had determined the allegations were justified. “This deeply tragic event is unexpected, but that does not mean it is unpredictable.”, He told reporters. “Everyone wanted to go to the island as victims, staff or visitors, knowing that the responsible structures had done what was necessary to take care of their health and safety.”, Salon Bill Parks.
The case is set to go to court on December 15.
Also read:Volcanic tourism, a dangerous activity
However, the director of WorkSafe declined to release the names of the individuals and companies involved. Tourists and general services will be responsible for overseeing this type of excursion on this volcanic island in the north of New Zealand. According to Bill Parks, the lawsuit seeks a fine of NZ $ 1.5 million (1.5 880,000) and individuals up to 17 176,000. He said it was the largest and most complex investigation conducted by his company.
Another investigation led by a forensic doctor is underway to determine whether criminal action should be taken. However, its results will not be known until the end of the cases administered by WorkSafe. “The forensic pathologist’s inquiry into the deaths of people on the White Island volcano will be subject to the period of legal proceedings initiated by other services.”A spokesman for the medical examiner said.
See also – Volcanic eruption in New Zealand: “It was like Chernobyl” (10/12/2019)
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