OSHA Inspectors Protect Workers from Potential Trench Collapse
Trench accidents in Arizona are one of the most common causes of major injuries or fatalities on construction sites. Recently, Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) investigators in Auburn, Alabama, saved the lives of several workers because they were able to identify the potential for a trench collapse.
According to an OSHA report, the agents were on their way to an inspection when they observed an open excavation where the employees were not protected from a cave-in. The officials immediately opened an inspection and removed the employees from the site. Shortly after the workers exited the trench, the wall of the excavation collapsed. No one was injured in the cave-in. Now investigators have to determine whether the construction company’s negligence contributed to the dangerous conditions.
Construction sites are extremely dangerous because of the presence of several hazards, including open trenches, on such work sites. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported a total of 4,340 fatal work injuries in the year 2009. It is the obligation of employers and property owners to provide safe work conditions for all workers and visitors to a construction site.
OSHA offers several suggestions to ensure that workers are not injured while working in trenches. Construction companies should keep heavy equipment away from the edges of trenches. They should know where the underground utilities are located, test for low oxygen, hazardous fumes and other toxic gases, and inspect the trenches at the start of each shift. It is also important that workers in trenches be supervised at all times. It is the job of the supervisor to monitor conditions in and around the trenches including changing weather and soil conditions.
Injured Arizona construction workers may pursue financial compensation for the damages they have suffered in a construction site accident. Workers compensation benefits should cover losses such as medical bills and a portion of the wages lost. The experienced Arizona construction accident lawyers at The Breyer Law Offices P.C. help workers get the compensation they rightfully deserve. Please contact our offices at 602-457-6222 for a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation.
