August 6, 2024

Department of Labor finds southeast Oklahoma contractor’s history of safety violations contributed to fatal trench collapse near Shawnee

OKLAHOMA CITY – An Edmond contractor with a history of workplace safety violations dating back to 2018, including three related to the dangers in underground trenches, was found disregarding U.S. Department of Labor regulations.

In February 2024, investigators with the department's Occupational Safety and Health Administration learned a 61-year-old pipe layer employed by Jerlow Construction Co. suffered fatal injuries when a 9-foot deep trench collapsed at a residential work site near Shawnee. The agency determined the employer allowed their employees to work in an excavation without proper protections, including shielding, benching, sloping or other devices. The incident occurred as employees worked below the surface to install an 8-inch water line.

"No one should ever be allowed to enter or work in an excavation without required protective systems in place and without inspection of the trench by a qualified person," explained OSHA Area Director Steven Kirby in Oklahoma City. "Despite numerous warnings and notices of violations for failing to protect employees in trenches, Jerlow Construction has joined the all-too-long list of employers whose defiance of federal regulations resulted in a preventable loss of life. Their failures are inexcusable."

OSHA issued citations to Jerlow Construction for one repeat violation and three serious violations following this incident's investigation. Infractions include failing to provide adequate systems to prevent trench cave-ins, train employees on how to recognize hazards related to excavations and perform daily inspections to verify safe entry conditions for the excavation. The company faces $85,173 in proposed penalties, an amount set by federal statute.

Founded in 1973, Jerlow Construction Co. is a licensed underground utility construction company that installs and services sanitary and storm sewers and water mains for residential developments and commercial projects.

Jerlow Construction Co. has 15 business days from receipt of its citations and penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA’s area director, or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.

Learn about trenching and excavation safety.               

Learn more about OSHA.

Media Contacts:

Juan J. Rodríguez, 972-850-4709, rodriguez.juan@dol.gov
Chauntra Rideaux, 972-850-4710, rideaux.chauntra.d@dol.gov

Release Number: 24-1621-DAL