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An Illinois sewer and water contractor based in Schaumburg has recently been issued three OSHA safety citations, along with a $63,910 fine, for allegedly subjecting workers to trench hazards.
According to OSHA, the contractor – VKR Enterprises, doing business as Mr. Rooter of Cook County – has been issued five OSHA citations.
- Failing to provide cave-in protections for trench workers
- Failing to provide safe egress, as well as a safe means of exiting trenches for workers
- Failing to provide trench workers with safety helmets.
Commenting on this enforcement action, OSHA Area Director Angeline Loftus stated:
An unprotected trench can bury a worker in seconds and cause severe or fatal injuries…Last year, a Mr. Rooter employee escaped serious injury in a trench collapse in Niles. It is inexcusable that this employer continues to expose workers to dangerous conditions.
OSHA Fine – Background OSHA’s General Rules for Excavation & Trenching Safety
Some of the general rules are as follows:
- Soil and other materials must be keep at least 2 feet away from trench edges.
- Heavy equipment must be keep away from the edges of trenches.
- Trenches should be inspect at the beginning of each shift, as well as following any water intrusion (such as rain).
- Trench workers should wear safety helmets.
To see a copy of OSHA’s citations, including one willful and two repeat citations, to VKR Enterprises, click here.
The options for response include complying with the penalties, requesting a hearing with local OSHA officials.
Contact a Mount Vernon Workers Compensation Lawyer at the Law Firm of Hassakis & Hassakis, P.C.
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