Cal/OSHA cites contractor after deadly 17-foot trench collapse
(UI) — California workplace safety officials have fined W. A. Rasic Construction $157,500 for multiple violations following a fatal trench collapse that killed a worker in August 2024.
The California Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) issued the citations after investigating the incident, which occurred around 3 a.m. on August 28, 2024. A worker was inside a 17-foot-deep trench when it partially collapsed, causing a concrete pipe to shift and pin the employee, who died at the scene.
Cal/OSHA found that the employer failed to follow trench safety regulations and cited the company for three major violations:
- Lack of an effective injury and illness prevention program: Inspectors determined the company did not have adequate procedures in place to identify and correct hazards or train employees, exposing them to unsafe conditions.
- Inadequate site inspection: The trench was not properly assessed for cave-in risks, and no protective systems—such as trench boxes or shoring—were in use at the time of the collapse.
- Failure to provide cave-in protection: The 17-foot trench lacked required protective systems, which could have prevented the collapse and fatality.
“No worker should lose their life due to preventable safety failures,” said Cal/OSHA Chief Debra Lee. “We will continue to enforce trench safety regulations, hold employers accountable and work to ensure that safety standards are upheld to protect workers.”
Employers have the right to appeal citations within 15 working days of receiving notification from Cal/OSHA.
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