Plumbing Co. Fined $24,000 for Trenching Violations

The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration fined a residential plumbing and sewage contractor in southern Idaho $24,000 for allegedly failing to take steps to protect workers from a trench collapse. A foreman and two laborers for BZ Plumbing Inc. were working in a seven- to 10-foot-deep trench Sept. 24, 2015, that was not sloped or braced with walls to prevent a cave-in, according to OSHA. Furthermore, there was no ladder in the trench to allow workers quick exit. And the plumbing contractor failed to ensure a "competent person" trained in trenching and excavation hazard...