NIOSH logo and tagline

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

California Case Report: 22CA003
Release Date: November 1, 2023

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]