FORT WORTH, TX – A U.S. Department of Labor investigation has uncovered that a Frisco contractor repeatedly put workers at risk by sending them into unprotected trenches without proper means of escape.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) investigated Bandera Utility Contractors LLC in July 2024 after receiving a formal complaint. The investigation revealed workers were involved in tasks like trench excavation, laser surveying, and using hand and powered tools on water and sewer lines within a trench that lacked an adequate protective system.

In addition to the absence of necessary protection, OSHA inspectors found that the company failed to provide basic safety measures, such as sufficient ladders or a safe means of escape in the event of a collapse. This comes after Bandera Utility was cited in 2022 for four serious violations of similar safety regulations when a 41-year-old employee suffered fatal injuries in a trench collapse while repairing a sewer line.

“Failing to protect workers during trenching operations is reckless and unacceptable, especially when the risks are widely recognized,” said OSHA Area Director Timothy Minor in Fort Worth, Texas. “Bandera Utility Contractors has a duty to protect its workers from cave-ins, and OSHA will continue to enforce federal laws to ensure compliance. Implementing and remembering the three S’s – slope, shore, and shield – can save lives and enhance jobsite safety.”

OSHA has proposed a penalty of $107,228 for the violations.

Bandera Utility was subcontracted by Greystar Development and Construction LP of Dallas, a global housing development company, for a commercial project in Fort Worth.

Founded in 2015, Bandera Utility Contractors LLC specializes in underground utility construction, focusing on water, sewer, and storm sewer systems.

The company now has 15 business days from receiving the citations and penalties to either comply, request an informal conference with OSHA, or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.