MIOSHA investigates three trench collapses in southeast Michigan
(UI) — Michigan workplace safety officials are investigating three separate trench collapses that occurred at construction sites across southeast Michigan within a week, including one that claimed the life of a worker, according to a report by ClickOnDetroit.
The Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration (MIOSHA) has opened investigations into all three incidents, which took place in Oakland and Livingston counties.
The first collapse occurred June 30 in Oxford Township, where a worker installing field tile for a septic system became trapped after a trench wall gave way while he was connecting pipe. Emergency crews rescued the 35-year-old worker, who was transported to a hospital and is expected to recover.
SEE ALSO: Worker dies after fall into utility shaft at Harris County construction site
A second incident happened July 1 in Orion Township during installation of a sanitary sewer for a residential development. As reported by ClickOnDetroit, a 25-year-old worker was inside a trench box when surrounding soil collapsed, trapping him below the waist. First responders freed the worker, who was hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries.
The third collapse proved fatal. According to MIOSHA and the Livingston County Sheriff's Office, the July 1 incident occurred at a construction site in Handy Township, where crews were installing underground storage tanks when a trench collapsed. A 30-year-old worker was rescued from the excavation, but lifesaving efforts at the scene were unsuccessful.
Authorities have not released the victim's identity or identified the employer involved in the fatal incident. MIOSHA's investigations into all three trench collapses remain ongoing.
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