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

29 CFR 1926.651(k)(1): Daily inspections of excavations, the adjacent areas, and protective systems shall be made by a competent person for evidence of a situation that could result in possible cave-ins, indications of failure of protective systems, hazardous atmospheres, or other hazardous conditions. An inspection shall be conducted by the competent person prior to the start of work and as needed throughout the shift. Inspections shall also be made after every rainstorm or other hazard increasing occurrence. These inspections are only required when employee exposure can be reasonably anticipated. a) On or about April 25, 2024, the employer failed to ensure that adequate daily inspections of the excavations were completed prior to initiating work to verify that the protective system was being correctly utilized and maintained throughout the work period. The trench boxes were not level with the grade, were not secured from being displaced, and were being used under unsupported gas lines. The employee had to travel over 25 feet outside the trench box to reach the ladder for exiting the excavation. As a result, employees were exposed to potential cave-in hazards while working in and exiting the approximately 16-foot deep trench.