Tragic Death of Electrocuted Lineman Sparks Safety Changes in BC
A sad incident that occurred over a century ago in Vernon, British Columbia has resulted in significant safety reforms for electrical workers across the province. The tragic death of 24-year-old Stewart Bain, an electric lineman, prompted investigations that led to tightened safety protocols in the industry.
On November 23, 1913, Stewart Bain was electrocuted while carrying out his duties on a power pole at the intersection of 32nd Street and Coldstream Avenue. Born on December 16, 1881, in Moray, Scotland, to Donald and Jane Bain, Stewart was working as part of a Vancouver Electric Company crew when he traveled to Vernon in 1913.
Little is known about his immigration to Canada, but it is clear that Stewart had a promising future cut short by a tragic accident. An inquest revealed that he accidentally came into contact with a live wire, resulting in his immediate death. His funeral, held ten days later, saw an immense turnout of electric linemen and groundmen from all over the city.
Despite being relatively new to Vernon, Stewart Bain had gained the respect and admiration of his colleagues, as evidenced by the overwhelming display of floral tributes. However, this tragic loss was not in vain.
Following the investigations into the incident, safety protocols and regulations for electrical workers were reviewed and strengthened throughout the province of British Columbia. The aim was to prevent such accidents from happening again and to ensure the well-being of all workers in the industry.
Gwyn Evans, the Head of Archives at the Museum and Archives of Vernon, emphasized the significance of this event in bringing about positive changes in electrical worker safety. The reforms implemented have undoubtedly created a safer working environment for current and future generations of linemen in British Columbia.
The untimely death of Stewart Bain serves as a somber reminder of the risks associated with electric work. However, his legacy lives on through the safety improvements that have been made in his name. It is a testament to the dedication of those in the industry to ensure the well-being of their fellow workers.
As time passes, the memory of Stewart Bain’s tragic death may fade, but the safety changes it inspired will continue to protect and save lives. The impact of this event transcends generations, making it an important milestone in the history of electrical worker safety in British Columbia.
