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The Region 6 Office of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (“OSHA”) issued an October 31st news release stating that it has cited UST Systems, Inc. (“USI”) for alleged violations involving trench safety.

USI is described as a Texas underground tank contractor.

OSHA alleges that USI allowed its employees to enter an excavation site in Austin, Texas, without proper protection or training on the dangers of unsupported soils. Inspectors are stated to have visited the company worksite and identified employees preparing an excavation for a new underground storage tank. The excavation is alleged to have lacked sloping, benching, or shoring required to support the soil walls.

OSHA has proposed a penalty in the amount of $35,844.

USI has 15 days from receipt of 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.

A copy of the news release can be found here.