Construction Worker Suffers Fatal Fall in Trench
Trenches are part of the construction process. Trenches are dug to create a stable base for buildings, preventing settling and collapse. They are used to install underground pipes, cables, and lines for water, gas, sewer, electricity, and telephone. Trenches are essential but they pose dangers for workers.
Sadly, a man recently died after he fell into a trench while working on a construction site. The fatal accident happened on the morning of May 6 in Union County.
The 29-year-old man from Cranford was working on a job site on the 300 block of Monroe Avenue in Kenilworth. The workers were installing a storm drain during an excavation. The man was using an excavator when he fell for unknown reasons and landed in a trench. He became trapped in mud and concrete.
First responders arrived at the accident scene. Rescue attempts were made but were unsuccessful. The man died at the accident scene.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) confirmed that the agency is investigating the incident. The man was a South Plainfield native and a member of the Rutgers University wrestling team before becoming a licensed plumber. His employer was K&D Contractors, LLC, which has no prior OSHA history.
Causes of Trench Accidents
Trenches are often deep holes that can cause injuries or death to workers. Here are some common causes to be aware of:
- Cave-ins. This is the most common and dangerous type of trench accident. Loose soil and lack of proper support can cause the walls of a trench to collapse, burying workers.
- Workers can fall into unprotected trenches, especially if the edges are not marked or barricaded.
- Falling loads. Equipment and materials can fall into the trench, striking and injuring workers below.
- Mobile equipment. Construction vehicles operating near trenches can accidentally strike or drive into the trench.
- Water accumulation. Unexpected water ingress can cause trenches to become unstable and collapse.
While trenches can be dangerous, there are things general contractors can do to keep themselves and others safe:
- Proper shoring. Use appropriate shoring and trench boxes to support trench walls.
- Sloping and benching. Angle the walls of the trench away from the excavation to reduce the risk of cave-ins.
- Hiring experienced people. Assign a competent person to inspect the trench and surrounding areas for signs of instability or other hazards.
- Safe access and egress. Provide ladders, steps, or ramps within the trench to ensure safe entry and exit.
- Use barricades and markings. Clearly mark trench edges and install physical barriers to prevent falls.
Contact a New Jersey Personal Injury Lawyer Today
Construction sites have a lot of dangers, and when workers get caught in them, they can suffer serious injuries or death.
A Morristown construction accident attorney from The Law Offices of Michael P. Burakoff can help you with your case. Our law office has extensive experience recovering full and fair compensation for clients injured in construction site accidents across New Jersey. Schedule a consultation to learn more. Call (973) 455-1567 or fill out the online form.
Source:
newjersey.news12.com/authorities-construction-worker-suffers-fatal-fall-into-trench-at-kenilworth-site
