March 20, 2025 | San Diego, CA — MedLegalNews.com — Construction safety is once again under scrutiny after a deadly trench collapse in San Diego prompted state regulators to take action. The California Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) issued $157,500 in citations to W. A. Rasic Construction following an investigation into the fatal incident. The worker was killed when a section of a 17-foot-deep trench gave way, pinning him beneath a dislodged concrete pipe. According to Cal/OSHA, the company failed to follow essential construction safety protocols, resulting in violations that could have prevented the tragedy.
Incident Overview
On August 28, 2024, at approximately 3:00 a.m., a worker was performing underground utility work inside a 17-foot-deep trench when a portion of the trench wall suddenly collapsed. The impact force displaced a large concrete pipe, trapping and fatally injuring the employee before rescue teams could respond. Investigators later determined that the trench lacked proper shoring and sloping — two critical requirements under construction safety standards designed to prevent such cave-ins.
Cal/OSHA’s investigation revealed multiple serious violations involving excavation and trench safety procedures. These included the failure to use protective systems, inadequate soil assessment, and insufficient jobsite inspections. The agency concluded that stronger adherence to construction safety protocols could have prevented the incident entirely.
Cal/OSHA Statement on the Violations
Cal/OSHA Chief Debra Lee emphasized the importance of trench safety, stating:
“No worker should lose their life due to preventable safety failures. We will continue to enforce trench safety regulations, hold employers accountable, and work to ensure that safety standards are upheld to protect workers.”
Key Violations Identified by Cal/OSHA
1. Failure to Implement an Effective Injury and Illness Prevention Program
W. A. Rasic Construction did not identify, evaluate, or correct workplace hazards. The company also failed to provide proper training, exposing workers to preventable risks.
2. Failure to Conduct Proper Site Inspections
The employer did not conduct adequate inspections to identify potential cave-in hazards. Additionally, they failed to ensure the use of protective systems, such as trench boxes or shoring, which might have prevented the collapse.
3. Failure to Provide Adequate Cave-In Protection
Despite the trench’s depth, the employer did not provide required cave-in protection. This critical oversight exposed employees to severe risks, ultimately resulting in a fatal outcome.
Employer’s Right to Appeal Citations
Employers can appeal Cal/OSHA citations by filing with the Occupational Safety and Health Appeals Board within 15 working days of receiving the citation.
For verified information on workplace safety and enforcement actions, visit the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) website.
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FAQS: Construction Safety
What construction safety violations led to the Cal/OSHA citation?
Cal/OSHA cited the company for multiple construction safety violations, including failure to inspect the trench site and provide adequate cave-in protection.
How can employers improve construction safety during trench work?
Employers should implement comprehensive safety programs, use protective systems such as trench boxes, and ensure daily site inspections to maintain construction safety.
What are the penalties for construction safety violations in California?
Fines can range from thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on the severity of the construction safety breach and whether it resulted in injuries or fatalities.
Can companies appeal Cal/OSHA construction safety citations?
Yes. Employers can appeal within 15 working days by filing with the California Occupational Safety and Health Appeals Board.