Text For Citation: 01 Item/Group: 002 Hazard:

29 CFR 1926.21(b)(2): The employer shall instruct each employee in the recognition and avoidance of unsafe conditions and the regulations applicable to his work environment to control or eliminate any hazards or other exposure to illness or injury: (a)First Dakota Enterprises, Inc. at Hilgers Gulch Sanitary Sewer Line Project, Pierre, SD 57501: On or about and at times prior to July 14, 2017, the employer did not ensure employees were instructed in the recognition and avoidance of unsafe conditions while performing sanitary sewer pipe installation within trench excavations. A site supervisor and employees were not provided training to effectively classify soil based on field techniques and also understand environmental conditions that affect soil stability which would define the type of protective system that could be utilized. The employer did not instruct employees in effectively establishing protective systems regarding sloping or benching methods to ensure employees were protected within a 14 foot deep excavation. The employer did not provide effective instruction on the proper use and limitations regarding trench box protective systems. These conditions exposed employees to cave-in hazards as a result of working in an excavation with 14 foot vertical unsupported walls.