A lighthouse keeper’s death at Triple Island near Prince Rupert prompts federal investigations into staffing and safety protocols.
Tragedy at Sea: Death of Isolated Lighthouse Keeper Prompts Safety Review
A Remote Outpost, a Sole Keeper, and Unanswered Calls
In a stark reminder of the risks faced by those who safeguard Canada’s coasts, a federal investigation is underway after an on-duty lighthouse keeper was found dead and alone at the Triple Island Light Station, 40 kilometres west of Prince Rupert, B.C. The incident, which occurred during a shift change in April, has raised urgent questions about safety protocols and staffing at one of the country’s most remote marine outposts.
The Final Shift: What Happened at Triple Island
Triple Island Lighthouse, perched on a rugged islet and operational since 1920, is vital for guiding marine traffic along B.C.’s northern coast and supporting deep-sea navigation to and from Prince Rupert. The station is typically staffed by two keepers on rotating shifts, a system designed to ensure safety and operational continuity in such an isolated environment.
However, during the April shift change, only one keeper was left on duty. When the Canadian Coast Guard was unable to reach him by radio, a helicopter was dispatched for a welfare check. The keeper was discovered unresponsive, and emergency services later pronounced him dead.
Investigations Focus on Staffing and Safety Compliance
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police and Coast Guard personnel responded to the scene, but the case was quickly turned over to Employment and Social Development Canada. The federal agency is now examining whether the Coast Guard complied with the Canada Labour Code, which mandates federally regulated employers to protect the health and safety of their workers.
WorkSafeBC confirmed the incident falls outside its jurisdiction, as it occurred at a federal facility.
Union and Community Call for Answers
The tragedy has deeply affected the lighthouse community. Jim Abram, a retired keeper and former union president, emphasized that remote stations like Triple Island are never meant to be staffed by a single individual. “Remote and isolated stations should never be managed by just one individual; this has been the standard for as long as I have served as a keeper,” Abram said.
He noted that the usual rotation involves two keepers, and expressed concern that only one was present during the shift change. The Coast Guard has yet to explain why this occurred, but the investigation is expected to clarify the circumstances.
The Human Toll and the Path Forward
The loss has left the remaining keepers devastated, highlighting the emotional and professional toll such incidents can take on those who serve in isolation. The Coast Guard has offered condolences and support to the keeper’s family and colleagues, pledging to cooperate fully with the ongoing investigation.
As the probe continues, the spotlight remains on ensuring that Canada’s lighthouse keepers-guardians of the coast-are never left to face danger alone.
