Text For Citation: 02 Item/Group: 001B Hazard:

29 CFR 1926.651(k)(1): Daily inspections of excavations, the adjacent areas, and protective systems were not 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 was not conducted by the competent person prior to the start of work and as needed throughout the shift. Inspections were not made after every rainstorm or other hazard increasing occurrence: a) On or about July 15, 2020, the employer, DBS, Inc. dba Colorado Structural Repair, did not remove an employee, who was engaged in excavation and waterproofing work, from an open excavation measuring approximately 9 feet in depth. This excavation was without an adequate protective system and was known to the employer as a hazardous working condition. Recommended Abatement Action: Inspections shall be made by a competent person, shall be documented, and shall be conducted in the following frequency and conditions: daily and before the start of each shift; as dictated by the work being done in the trench; after every rainstorm; after other events that could increase hazards, e.g. snowstorm, windstorm, thaw, earthquake, etc.; when fissures, tension cracks, sloughing, undercutting, water seepage, bulging at the bottom, or other similar conditions occur; when there is a change in the size, location, or placement of the spoil pile; and when there is any indication of change or movement in adjacent structures. Abatement Note: Abatement certification and documentation are required for this item (see enclosed "Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet").