Workplace safety investigation launched after Buddhist monk dies on P.E.I.

The Workers Compensation Board of P.E.I. says it is investigating fatal injuries to a monk at the Great Enlightenment Buddhist Institute Society's property in Heatherdale as a "work-related incident."

A spokesperson for the board said no other information could be provided while the investigation is underway.

The society had earlier told CBC News that two members of the order were struck by a falling tree while working in the woods on Aug. 22.

"Emergency services were called immediately [and] first responders arrived shortly after," executive secretary Geoffrey Yang said in an email.

"One monk sustained fractures, while the other, unfortunately, passed away the following day."

The monks were aged 46 and 58, he said.

"We have lost a beloved brother. Though we are deeply grieving, we are grateful for the support from the emergency first responders and the staff at QEH [Queen Elizabeth Hospital]. At this time, we ask the community to join us in prayer for our brother and their families."

Yang said the society is working with the family of the member who died to co-ordinate funeral arrangements.

It goes without saying that we extend our sincere condolences to the deceased's family and the entire GEBIS community on the loss of their family and community member.Dominique Chouinard

"As you can imagine, work-related incidents that lead to a fatality are sensitive to investigate," Workers Compensation Board spokesperson Dominique Chouinard said in an email to CBC News.

She said the board's Occupational Health and Safety Division had learned about the incident from a third party, and wasn't called to the scene.

"It goes without saying that we extend our sincere condolences to the deceased's family and the entire GEBIS community on the loss of their family and community member," Chouinard said in the email.

"We do want to remind all workers and employers that all serious work-related injuries must be immediately reported to the WCB's OHS Division by calling the 24/7 emergency line at 902-628-7513."