Landscaping firm fined for having worker in tree near overhead power lines at Chilliwack worksite

CHILLIWACK – A landscaping firm has been fined after WorkSafeBC says one of its workers was observed in a tree adjacent to overhead power lines during a tree removal job in Chilliwack.

According to its website, WorkSafeBC says it was inspecting a Chilliwack worksite where AGH Landscaping Services Ltd. was tasked with a tree removal job. One worker, representing the company, was observed in a tree adjacent to overhead power lines.

WorkSafeBC says it determined that the worker was not a certified arborist, and the worksite had not been inspected for electrical hazards.

As a result, a stop-work order was issued. WorkSafeBC says the company failed to ensure tree pruning or falling did not occur within the minimum distance of overhead high-voltage conductors and “unless a certified arborist or qualified electrical worker was present.”

WorkSafeBC called the infraction a high-risk violation and fined the company $2,500 on April 14, 2026.

On its website, WorkSafeBC says administrative penalties are fines imposed on employers for health and safety violations of the Workers Compensation Act, the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation, and/or orders of WorkSafeBC, and for failure to take sufficient precautions to prevent workplace injuries or illnesses. It says penalties are published as a deterrent and to highlight the importance of making workplaces safe.