When a tragedy like the one in Fernie, BC occurs, it is only natural that the public may have questions about the facilities in their own community. In order to answer those questions and to alleviate any concerns, the City of Vernon is issuing this Media Release.
The City of Vernon arenas are Technical Safety BC (formerly the BC Safety Authority) certified with the highest risk assessed status for safety procedures and maintenance possible. This is an annual certification and the facilities undergo thorough audits to maintain it. The City also participates in the WorkSafe BC Certificate of Recognition audit program and the refrigeration plant procedures are a component of the annual audits.
The City completes annual maintenance of the refrigeration systems in the off season with certified contractors that follow strict protocols to complete the required work. All three of the refrigeration plants are monitored by sensors 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Safety procedures include checks on each of the systems at regular intervals throughout each day by City of Vernon staff with Power Engineer Certificates.
Although tragic, when an accident occurs, it serves to heighten the awareness and reinforce the need for us to maintain a high level of safety in our facilities. The City wants to assure the public that the City takes the safety of their staff and the public very seriously.