Text For Citation: 03 Item/Group: 002A Hazard:

29 CFR 1926.651(k)(2): Where the competent person finds evidence of a situation that could result in a possible cave-in, indications of failure of protective systems, hazardous atmospheres, or other hazardous conditions, exposed employees shall be removed from the hazardous area until the necessary precautions have been taken to ensure their safety. On or about June 15, 2023, at 640 Michigan Street in Omro, Wisconsin, the employer did not removed employees from a trench who were exposed to cave-in and struck-by hazards. The competent person had determined cave-in protection was required, placed the spoil pile on top edge of trench, installed a trench shield that was not built to manufacturer's recommendations or secured from potential lateral movement, allowed two employees to work from inside the shield without an access/egress ladder, and allowed an employee to work outside the trench shield without an access/egress ladder. The Wood Sewer & Excavating, Inc. was previously cited for a violation of this occupational safety and health standard or its equivalent standard 1926.651(k)(2), which was contained in OSHA inspection number 1401653, citation number 01, item number 001 and was affirmed as a final order on October 8, 2019, with respect to a workplace located at 526 Crossway Rd., Fox Point, WI 53217.