The recent tragic death of 27-year-old worker Joel Olea Gomez in a trench collapse in San Diego underscores the critical need for construction owners to prioritize trench safety on all job sites. This marks the third trench-related fatality in California since 2023, raising serious concerns about the safety protocols in place within the industry.

For construction owners, particularly those managing large-scale infrastructure projects, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential risks inherent in trench work. As more cities invest in water and utility projects, like the one Gomez was working on, ensuring worker safety through strict adherence to OSHA standards must be a top priority. The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has outlined clear trench safety regulations, including the use of protective systems, proper shoring, and routine inspections. Unfortunately, these safeguards are not always adequately enforced, leading to preventable fatalities like this one.

W.A. Rasic Construction, Gomez's employer, has faced previous OSHA violations, which raises questions about the company's commitment to worker safety. Construction owners need to be vigilant in selecting contractors with solid safety records and ensure compliance with OSHA standards to avoid such tragedies. For example, trench collapses can be mitigated through practices like trench shielding, regular soil stability assessments, and the use of protective trench boxes.

California's construction industry has seen an alarming trend in trench deaths, with two previous fatalities in 2023. These incidents signal the need for stricter enforcement of OSHA’s safety rules, as well as a renewed focus on training workers in the dangers of excavation work. Construction owners must lead the charge in fostering a culture of safety, recognizing that investing in rigorous safety measures not only protects workers but also prevents costly fines and project delays.

While the physical loss is devastating, construction owners also bear the responsibility of maintaining safe work environments to prevent these tragic outcomes. As the industry moves forward with more complex infrastructure projects, addressing these safety issues must be at the forefront of every construction owner's agenda.

OSHA Safety Regulations and Trench Fatalities

According to OSHA, trench work remains one of the most hazardous tasks in construction, with trench collapses often leading to fatalities. OSHA mandates the use of protective systems for trenches deeper than five feet, proper sloping of trench walls, and routine inspections by competent safety personnel. Non-compliance with these safety standards has resulted in a growing number of fines and violations in the construction industry, particularly in California. Construction owners must ensure that all excavation projects strictly adhere to OSHA's safety rules to protect workers and avoid preventable tragedies.