Day Laborer Dies in a Collapsed Trench Being Dug to Repair a Sewer Line — California

SUMMARY

On September 14, 2022, a 34-year-old Hispanic day laborer, along with three other day laborers, dug an eight-foot-deep trench to expose a damaged sewer line. Unexpectedly, while digging, they exposed and broke a water line. Water and dirt filled the trench and created a thick mud. The victim became submerged under the mud and was unable to be extracted by co-workers or rescue personnel.

CONTRIBUTING FACTORS

• Lack of competent person onsite.
• Permits were not requested or issued for the work being performed.
• Workers were in an eight-foot-deep trench with no shoring.
• Water line was not turned off before or during work.
• Lack of training for workers in trenching safety.

RECOMMENDATIONS

California FACE (CA/FACE) investigators concluded that, to help prevent similar incidents, mobile home park owners and plumbing contractors should ensure:

• Trenches five feet deep or greater are properly shored, shielded, or sloped.
• Trenches are inspected by a competent person.
• A licensed plumbing contractor is used to perform trenching and excavation work.
• Day laborers are properly trained on hazards associated with working in a trench.

Day Laborer Dies in a Collapsed Trench Being Dug to Repair a Sewer Line — California [PDF – 2 MB]