Text For Citation: 01 Item/Group: 001 Hazard:

29 CFR 1926.651(k)(1): An inspection of the excavations, the adjacent areas, and protective systems was not conducted by the competent person prior to the start of work and as needed throughout the shift: a) The employer does not ensure that each employee working in a trench is protected by removing them when the competent person discovers hazardous situations or conditions. This violation was most recently discovered at a site on state route 4021 in Eyersgrove, PA, where employees were allowed to work in a trench that contained flowing water, sloughing soil, and lacked cave-in protection. Abatement of the cited instances must be accomplished by February 2, 2016. In addition, pursuant to 29 CFR 1903.19, the employer must submit documentation describing the steps it is taking to ensure compliance, including a description of how these steps protect its employees from hazardous conditions identified by the competent person.