Construction workers in Ohio will be all too aware of the hazards they face when they work in trenches. Unfortunately, some employers disregard those dangers and put their workers’ lives on the line when they fail to comply with the strict safety regulations. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has rules in place to prevent trench collapses and other construction workers’ accidents.
Two Oakwood city employees were extremely fortunate when they were recently rescued from a collapsed trench because many before them lost their lives in such incidents. Authorities report that an emergency call was logged shortly after 1:30 p.m. on a recent Thursday. Rescuers from various agencies responded to work on rescuing two workers trapped in a six-foot deep excavation where they worked on a sewer line. They were buried up to their waists in soil from a collapsed trench wall.
Reportedly, one worker was brought to safety within a short time, but it took approximately two hours to rescue the second worker. Both workers were transported to hospitals; however, their conditions were not reported. There was also no information provided about any safety precautions taken to prevent collapses. Trench walls must be shored or supported before any workers are allowed to enter.
Victims of construction workers’ accidents in Ohio are typically entitled to benefits through the workers’ compensation insurance system. Strict time limits must be met to file successful benefit claims, which will provide compensation for medical expenses, lost wages and other related costs. This process can be simplified with the support and guidance of an experienced workers’ compensation attorney.
Source: Thea Emroll, Kristen Eskow, “Emergency crews respond to two people falling in trench“, Thea Emroll, March 9, 2018