There are two theories on that.
The first theory says that seven-figure fines would be necessary because manufacturers pay no attention to fines until they are in the millions of dollars. The second theory says that publicity plays a role, because it can tarnish a company’s reputation. We subscribe more to the second.
When fines are too high, they are not levied. The companies simply refuse to pay them.
Levying fines is not in Transport Canada’s culture. The ideal is to make them as mild as possible so that they become a tool.