CANADA (From news reports) -- One man is dead following a Nov. 18 incident at the Weyerhaeuser Grande Prairie lumber mill.

OHS says in a statement that a worker died on Saturday, November 18 after being struck by an object. Other circumstances surrounding the person's death were not given.

The statement also says no information will be released that may identify the person who died, and that because this is an active investigation, no further information will be provided.

"We've lost a valued member of our team, and this tragedy is felt deeply throughout our organization," says Ken McQuaig, mill manager. "Our thoughts are with his family, and we're providing as much support to them as we can. We have encouraged everyone on our team to take time to be with their families and care for themselves and one another, and we're thankful for all of the support from our community during this challenging time."

Details of the incident remain unknown as the investigations are under way.

"...while we cannot provide additional details at this time, we are cooperating fully with the RCMP and OH&S as well as conducting our own internal safety review. The mill is shut down for these investigations," said Mary Catherine McAleer, Government Relations Manager, WA and Canada.

Alberta Occupational Health & Safety (OH&S) investigates incidents of a serious nature including:

• Incidents resulting in a worker fatality or where a worker is admitted to hospital;
• Unplanned or uncontrolled explosions, fires or flood;
• Upset or collapse of crane, derrick or hoist.
• A full or partial building or structural collapse or failure.

Immediately following a reportable incident and any necessary emergency measures, the employer is responsible for securing the site and immediately notifying OH&S.

The company must also conduct its own investigation to determine root cause and recommendations to prevent further incidents.

There is no set timeline for the investigation or publishing any findings.

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