An Ontario mine is paying the price for failing to develop standard safe procedures for workers performing checks to determine the presence of gases following rock blasts.

Placer Dome Ltd., carrying on business as Musselwhite Mine in northwestern Ontario, was also found guilty of failing to ensure that such procedures were followed.

Two workers were performing underground gas checks following a rock blast in summer 2004 when one worker fell 12-15 meters (39-49 feet) through an open hole and landed on blasted rock.

In addition to meting out a $350,000 fine, Justice Peter Bishop also imposed a 25 percent victim fine surcharge.