An Edmond, Oklahoma construction company, Jerlow Construction Co., is facing significant penalties after an OSHA investigation revealed a pattern of safety violations culminating in a fatal trench collapse. A 61-year-old worker lost their life in February when a nine-foot trench collapsed at a Shawnee residential site.

OSHA investigators determined that the company had failed to provide essential safety equipment and training to its employees, leading to the tragic incident. The contractor, specializing in sewer and water main installations for residential and commercial projects, has a history of safety violations, according to OSHA.

The agency issued a repeat violation and three serious violations, citing failures to implement trench cave-in prevention measures, provide adequate employee training, and conduct daily safety inspections. Jerlow Construction faces penalties totaling $85,173.

This incident underscores the critical importance of stringent safety protocols in the construction industry, particularly in high-risk environments like trenching. The case highlights the devastating consequences of neglecting worker safety and the financial repercussions for employers who fail to comply with regulations.