U.S. Department of Labor Cites Georgia Contractor for Trenching Hazards and Proposes $130,552 in Penalties

SAVANNAH, GA – The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited Dustcom Limited Inc. for failing to protect its employees from trench collapse hazards. The Garden City construction company faces proposed penalties of $130,552.

OSHA inspectors observed employees installing water lines in an unprotected trench. Following an investigation, OSHA cited the company for exposing employees to cave-in hazards; failing to appoint a competent person to ensure the use of cave-in protection; using a damaged ladder for entering and exiting a trench; and failing to place a soil pile at least 24 inches from the edge of the excavation.

“Excavations without cave-in protection are life threatening for the employees who work in them,” said OSHA Area Director Margo Westmoreland, in Savannah. “Employers must ensure that proper safeguards are in place to prevent putting workers at risk.”

The inspection was initiated as part of the Agency’s national emphasis program on trenching.

The company has 15 business days from receipt of the citations and proposed penalties to comply, request an informal conference, or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees. OSHA’s role is to ensure these conditions for America’s working men and women by setting and enforcing standards, and providing training, education, and assistance. For more information, visit http://www.osha.gov.