The swing stage collapse that caused the deaths of four workers on Christmas Eve in 2009 continues to have ripple effects in the construction industry.

On March 11, the province’s Regional Supervising Coroner for Inquests, announced that a date has been scheduled for the inquest into the deaths of Fayzullo Fazilov, Alexsandrs Bondarevs, Vladimir Korostin, and Aleksey Blumberg. All four men, who worked for Metron Construction, died when the swing stage they were standing on collapsed. The men suffered fatal injuries from a 13-storey fall.

Two other workers were also present during the accident. One sustained serious injuries, while the other, who was wearing fall-protection equipment, was unhurt.

The inquest, which is mandatory under the Coroners Act, will examine the circumstances surrounding the deaths. The jury may make recommendations aimed at preventing further deaths.

The swing-stage collapse shocked the construction industry and led to fines against the swing-stage supplier, fines and criminal charges against Metron Construction, and jail time for the project manager. It also led to sweeping reforms of Ontario’s construction safety regime, including its requirements for working at heights.

The inquest is expected to last 14 days and hear from approximately 12 witnesses. The delay in scheduling the inquest was due to the time required to conclude all investigations, charges and appeals relating to the accident.