'He deserved more’: Mother of mechanic killed on the job calls for change as charges are laid

Two years after an Edmonton man sustained fatal injuries while on shift at a northern Alberta pulp mill, workplace safety charges have been laid in his death.  

Ryan Sharpe, a heavy duty mechanic, died March 13, 2024, while servicing a wheel loader at the pulp mill in Slave Lake, about 450 kilometres north of Edmonton. 

The 30-year-old was positioned underneath the Caterpillar heavy construction machine, which was elevated on wooden blocks, when it unexpectedly shifted. He died of his injuries.

Provincial safety investigators announced charges in his death earlier this month, alleging the companies involved in Sharpe’s work at the pulp mill failed to ensure his safety. 

Pacesetter Equipment Ltd, West Fraser Mills Ltd. and West Fraser Mills Ltd. operating as Slave Lake Pulp are facing a total of five counts under the Occupational Health and Safety Act. Officials with the companies have not responded to requests for comment.  

Sharpe is remembered by his family as a doting son, dedicated brother and hard-working mechanic. 

Sharpe’s mother, Terri-Lynn Sharpe, said her son lived in Edmonton but had been called to work in Slave Lake that day.

She said the two years since his death have brought grief and painful questions

“I’m grateful there was an investigation but I’m disappointed there had to be one in the first place,” she said in a statement to CBC News. 

“I’m still trying to process the charges but hoping that they make a difference. I wouldn’t want anyone to have to go through this trauma and absolute heartbreak.” 

She said her opinions on her son's death are hers alone. She said Sharpe’s father, Wally, and his sister, Khaila, have each coped with their loss in their own way. 

According to the charges, the alleged workplace infractions include allowing Sharpe to rely on the wood blocks to elevate the machine and allowing him to remove the front drive shaft and parking brake without assistance. 

The companies also allegedly failed to ensure the equipment was repaired in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications. 

The pulp mill, which produces pulp for printing, stationery and paperboard, was sold in the spring 2024 and is now operated by Millar Western Forest Products.