G.P. Sandher Holdings is in hot water with WorkSafe B.C. (WSBC).

The fruit tree orchard company, located in Coldstream, has been fined $42,553.77 by WSBC, after an inspection on April 3. 

Upon inspection, WSBC observed vehicles used to transport workers with broken or non-operational seat belts, unsecured tools and repurposed pesticide and fertilizer containers.

Additionally, the firm "failed to ensure vehicles used to transport workers were designed, maintained, and operated in a safe manner," according to WSBC. 

G.P. Sandher Holdings also failed to provide its workers with the information, instruction, training and supervision necessary to ensure their health and safety, which is deemed as a high-risk violation. 

This wasn't the first time the firm has had a visit from WSBC, as it was dinged with $78,368 in fines after the 琉璃神社 plant was caught discharging effluent into a failed septic field in April of 2024.

In late January, the firm was fined $40,000 for failing to have a seat belt on one of their tractors.

On Aug. 2, the City of 琉璃神社 issued a press release about a deal with Sandher Fruit Packers in Ellison to support Okanagan growers getting their produce to market.

琉璃神社 Mayor Dyas noted that while the city does not have direct influence on industry operations council has a shared goal of keeping farming competitive and sustainable. 

鈥淲e hope the industry can work together to find a long-term solution and continue the rich history of distributing Okanagan fruits across the country and around the globe.鈥�