OSHA cited Warminster, Pa.-based Etna Construction for exposing employees to excavation hazards at a Philadelphia worksite, according to a news release from the agency.
The agency determined Etna Construction did not install protective systems inside the trench excavation area, failed to provide a safe means of exit from the excavation area, and failed to instruct employees on how to recognize excavation hazards. The company additionally failed to ensure employees wore hardhats in the trenching area. Etna Construction faces $208,560 in penalties for the alleged violations.
“Employees can be seriously or fatally injured in a matter of seconds when a trench collapses,” said OSHA Philadelphia area office director Theresa Downs. “Trench-related injuries are preventable when employees are trained properly, and the required protections are in place.”
Etna Construction has 15 business days from the receipt of OSHA’s citations to comply, request an informal conference with its OSHA area director, or contest the findings.
