Nov. 1, 2017

BOISE, ID – The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited Alta Construction, Inc. for one willful and two serious violations after failing to follow safe trenching practices. OSHA proposed $106,000 in fines.

In May, OSHA inspected the company’s jobsite after receiving two complaints of unsafe trenching operations. Inspectors found employees inside a 7-feet deep trench without cave-in protection.

“Fortunately no one was injured, but it is imperative that companies use protective systems in trenches to keep their workers safe,” said OSHA Area Director David Kearns, in Boise.

The company has 15 business days from receipt of its citations and penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA’s area director, or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees. OSHA’s role is to ensure these conditions for America’s working men and women by setting and enforcing standards, and providing training, education and assistance. For more information, visit www.osha.gov.