Fatal Construction Site Accident: CNESST Discloses 2024 Investigation Results

Source: CNESST

To consult the investigation report:https://www.centredoc.cnesst.gouv.qc.ca/pdf/Enquete/ed004437.pdf

Quebec City, April 3, 2025 — The CNESST (Commission for Standards, Equity, Health and Safety at Work) has released its investigation report on the July 9, 2024 fatal workplace accident involving a flagperson from McKinnon Multi-Services inc. on a construction site in Quebec City.

A preventable tragedy

The report confirms that the flagperson was coordinating traffic at a site exit when he was fatally struck by a semi-trailer truck during a left-hand turn maneuver. He had just guided a truck in reverse and moved to direct another vehicle when the accident occurred.

Three main causes were identified:

1. The flagperson moved into the swing area of the turning semi-trailer.

2. He was handling multiple traffic tasks at once in a hazardous area.

3. Poor traffic flow planning increased the risk of collision.

Immediate safety measures enforced

Following the accident, the CNESST suspended all truck movement and flagging operations on-site. Work resumed only after an engineer-approved traffic plan and safe delivery procedures were implemented and communicated to all workers.

Preventing future accidents

The CNESST recommends:

• Planning vehicle circulation to avoid reversing maneuvers.

• Ensuring flagpersons operate from safe positions and handle only one traffic direction.

• Avoiding multiple role assignments.

• Coordinating flagging operations with the site manager.

A webinar focusing on flagperson safety will be held on April 15, 2025, to further raise awareness on safe positioning and role responsibilities.

The report will be shared with unions, professional associations, and educational institutions to strengthen safety culture across the construction sector.