The U.S. Department of Labor has cited Always Underground LLC, a utility construction company based in Frankfort, Illinois, after federal investigators identified repeated trenching and excavation safety hazards involving employees working in an unprotected trench.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) initiated the investigation under its National Emphasis Program on Trenching after observing workers in a trench more than eight feet deep without adequate protection.
OSHA issued three repeat citations for failures involving critical excavation safety requirements. The violations included failing to provide workers with a safe means of egress, failing to install a protective system against trench cave-ins, and allowing excavated materials or equipment to remain within two feet of the trench edge.
The agency also cited the company for one serious violation involving the failure to provide protective hardhats against falling objects.
OSHA proposed a total of $380,664 in penalties in connection with the findings. The citations address hazards that can expose construction workers to serious injuries, particularly trench collapses and falling materials.
Following receipt of the citations and proposed penalties, Always Underground LLC has 15 business days to take action. The company may comply with the requirements, request an informal conference with OSHA’s area director or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.
The proposed penalties and inspection findings may change as the case progresses. OSHA advises interested parties to consult its establishment search database for updates on the inspection and penalty status.
The enforcement action highlights the importance of protective systems, safe access and egress, proper material setbacks and appropriate personal protective equipment on utility construction sites.
OSHA provides employers with safety guidance and compliance assistance resources covering trenching and excavation work. Consistent implementation of these requirements is essential to reducing the risk of cave-ins, falling-object injuries and other hazards associated with underground construction.
Source: U.S. Department Of Labor.
