Willful Trench Violations Result in $198K in Fines

Another large trenching citation has been issued. OSHA cited for one willful and five serious violations to Groundworks Colorado LLC, doing business as Foundation Repair of Western Colorado. OSHA found the company willfully allowed workers to work in trenches up to 10.5 feet deep without protective or retaining devices in place.

The agency identified serious violations for allowing workers in trenches up to 10.5 feet without protective helmets, ladders or other safe means of egress. They also determined workers had not received training on trenching hazards or how to recognize and control those hazards. The company also failed to have a competent person inspect the trenches prior to the start of work, and allowed excavated materials to be placed within 2 feet of the excavation’s edge.

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