Trench Accidents in the Construction Industry

If you see construction going on around our area, chances are there is a trench involved. When you think of trenches, you probably think of giant visible culverts in the ground, but that’s not always how they look. The reality is that there are various types of trenches used in the construction industry for different purposes. However, a trench collapse and other construction incidents can lead to severe injuries and even death for those in and around these hazardous areas.

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What is a Trench?

A trench is a narrow excavation below the ground’s surface, where the depth exceeds the width, and the width is generally no more than 15 feet. Trenches are essential for numerous construction projects, including installing utility lines, laying drainage systems, and building structural foundations.

Although trenches vary in size and purpose, they all carry inherent risks. The soil surrounding the trench can be unstable, leading to collapses, and workers are often confined in tight, hazardous spaces. This combination makes trenches one of the most dangerous areas on a construction site.

Common Causes of Trench Accidents

Trench accidents are frequently catastrophic, resulting from a range of safety lapses or environmental factors. Some of the most common causes include:

• Cave-ins. This is the most frequent and deadly trench accident. A single cubic yard of soil can weigh as much as a small car, and workers trapped in a cave-in often face fatal outcomes. Cave-ins typically occur when walls are not properly shored or stabilized.
• Falls into the trench. Workers, equipment, or materials can fall into the trench when edges are left unprotected. Without guardrails or other safety barriers, these falls can lead to severe injuries.
• Hazardous atmospheres. Trenches may accumulate toxic gases or lack adequate oxygen levels, particularly when they are deeper or located near hazardous materials. Workers in these conditions risk suffocation or poisoning.
• Proximity to heavy equipment. Trenching often requires the use of large machinery like excavators. If operators are not careful, equipment can cause collapses or strike workers near the trench.
• Falling loads. Materials stacked too close to the edge of a trench may fall, striking workers below and contributing to collapses.

Each of these scenarios is preventable with proper training, planning, and adherence to safety protocols.

At Paulson Coletti, “liberty and justice for all” is more than just a phrase – it is our mandate. Our team of trial lawyers is driven to pursue justice for the injured, ensuring that the responsible parties are held accountable. With a high success rate both in and out of the courtroom, you can trust our Oregon personal injury lawyers to be the legal advocates you need so your voice can be heard.

Jane Paulson

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OSHA Trench Requirements

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has implemented specific regulations to protect workers involved in trenching and excavation. These guidelines are designed to reduce the risk of accidents and improve safety at construction sites. Key requirements include:

• Protective systems. Trenches deeper than 5 feet must have protective systems like sloping, shoring, or trench boxes to prevent collapses. These systems support the walls and keep workers safe.
• Competent person inspections. A trained and designated individual must inspect trenches daily and after any event that could increase hazards, such as heavy rain or nearby construction.
• Safe access and egress. For trenches 4 feet deep or more, there must be safe entry and exit points, such as ladders or ramps, located no more than 25 feet away from workers.
• Hazardous atmosphere testing. Trenches must be tested for oxygen levels and the presence of hazardous gases before workers enter, especially in deeper excavations.
• Material placement. Excavated materials and tools must be stored at least 2 feet away from the trench edge to prevent debris from falling in.

Failure to comply with OSHA’s trenching and excavation standards can result in significant penalties for employers and increased risks for workers.

Steps to Prevent Trench Accidents

Preventing trench accidents begins with a proactive approach to safety. Employers and workers alike must prioritize risk reduction through:

• Comprehensive training. Workers should receive education on trench hazards, safe work practices, and emergency procedures.
• Routine inspections. Trenches and surrounding areas should be inspected daily to identify potential risks and ensure compliance with safety standards.
• Proper use of equipment. All protective systems and excavation machinery must be used as intended and maintained in good condition.
• Clear communication. Establishing clear communication protocols helps ensure workers are aware of ongoing activities and potential hazards.
• Emergency preparedness. Having a response plan in place for trench accidents, including rescue equipment and trained personnel, can save lives when incidents occur.

Legal Support for Trench Accident Victims

Trench accidents often result in devastating injuries or fatalities, leaving victims and their families grappling with medical bills, lost income, and emotional distress. Workers injured in trench accidents may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits to cover medical expenses and a portion of their lost wages.

In cases involving third-party negligence, such as faulty equipment or unsafe site conditions caused by subcontractors, injured workers may also pursue personal injury lawsuits to recover additional compensation. A skilled construction accident attorney can help you navigate the complexities of these claims and ensure your rights are protected.

“Most cases settle, but each of our cases is prepared as if it’s going to trial. The insurance companies know it and so do the defense lawyers defending them. That’s why we get such great results for our clients.”

John Coletti

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Speak to a Construction Accident Attorney

If you or someone you love has been injured in a trench accident, the team at Paulson Coletti Trial Attorneys PC is here to help. Our experienced Portland construction accident attorneys understand the unique challenges posed by construction site injuries and are dedicated to securing the compensation you deserve.

Contact us today through our online form for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn about your legal options.

Paulson Coletti

Trial Attorneys PC

At Paulson Coletti, a local firm based in Oregon, justice is our mission. As experienced trial attorneys, we fight for injury victims across Oregon and Washington, holding negligent parties accountable. With a proven track record in and out of the courtroom, we are dedicated to securing fair compensation for our clients. We take a client-centered approach, focusing on cases we believe in and delivering results that matter. No fees unless we win-because justice should never come with financial risk.

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What Our Clients Are Saying About Us

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John and Lisa were extremely helpful with my family as we navigated damages sustained in a tragic car accident. They were very knowledgeable throughout the entire process. Their communication and empathy to our situation was greatly appreciated.

I can’t imagine working our way through the tragedy without them by our side. I would highly recommend Paulson and Coletti!

Michelle H

Working with John was an excellent experience from start to finish. He fought long and hard to secure a fair and just settlement in our case, and his dedication never wavered. John and his staff were consistently considerate, helpful, and communicative throughout the entire process, always taking the time to answer our questions and keep us informed. Given the complicated and sensitive nature of our case, I’m truly grateful we had John in our corner. Thanks to his hard work and expertise, we achieved a better outcome than we could have hoped for.

Hugh Leonard

I had an excellent experience working with Jane and her team on my accident case. From start to finish, their team was professional, responsive, and genuinely cared about getting the best possible outcome for me.

I highly recommend Paulson Coletti Trial Attorneys to anyone who needs legal representation. They made a stressful situation much easier to navigate, and I’m extremely grateful for everything they did for me.

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I recently engaged John Coletti to represent me in a challenging legal matter, and I cannot recommend him highly enough. From our initial consultation, it was evident that John possessed an exceptional depth of knowledge, strategic acumen, and unwavering dedication to his clients. He took the time to thoroughly understand the nuances of our case, explaining complex legal concepts in clear, accessible terms while always keeping me informed and involved throughout the process.

John not only delivered outstanding results but also provided compassionate support during what could have been an overwhelming stressful time.

If you’re seeking an attorney who combines professionalism, integrity, and proven success, look no further than John Coletti.
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