OSHA Cites Florida Pipeline Contractor After Fatal Drilling Incident

Workplace safety enforcement is drawing attention in Florida’s pipeline construction sector after federal regulators cited an Orlando-based contractor over hazards associated with horizontal directional drilling following a worker fatality.

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration cited T & T Pipeline Co. Inc. for a willful violation after an employee was fatally struck by a rotating pipe stem at a New Smyrna Beach worksite on March 17, 2026. OSHA proposed $165,514 in penalties as part of its enforcement action.

Highlights

• OSHA cited T & T Pipeline Co. Inc. following a fatal March 2026 drilling incident.
• The worker was struck by a rotating pipe stem while a drill bit was being replaced.
• OSHA issued a willful violation for exposure to struck-by hazards.
• The agency proposed $165,514 in penalties.
• The contractor has 15 business days to respond to the citations.

Fatal Incident Involved Horizontal Drilling Equipment

The incident occurred while employees were replacing a drill bit on a horizontal drilling machine. According to OSHA, the pipe stem began rotating during the work and struck an employee, resulting in the worker’s death.

The agency determined that employees were exposed to struck-by hazards while working on the horizontal directional drilling equipment.

Horizontal directional drilling is commonly used for underground pipeline and utility installation, making equipment safety and procedures during maintenance and drill-bit replacement important considerations for contractors working on these projects.

Contractor Has 15 Business Days to Respond

Following receipt of the citations and proposed penalties, T & T Pipeline Co. has 15 business days to take action. The contractor may comply with the findings, request an informal conference with OSHA or contest the citations and penalties before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.

OSHA also directs employers to resources covering workplace safety and health programs and compliance assistance.

Why It Matters

The enforcement action highlights the safety risks associated with heavy drilling equipment on pipeline and underground construction projects. Owners, contractors and project managers can use such cases as reminders of the importance of equipment-specific hazard controls, safe maintenance procedures and employee protection during drilling operations.

The citation remains subject to the contractor’s available response and contest rights.

Source: U.S. Department Of Labor.