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Trench-Related Fatalities in Construction: An Analysis of Fatality Assessment and Control Evaluation (FACE) Records

Carlos A. Arboleda¹, Dulcy M. Abraham², Reini Wirahadikusumah³, and Javier Irizarry⁴

Abstract

Every year, there are over one hundred estimated fatalities in the U.S. associated with excavations and trenching operations. Causes of fatalities include: cave-ins, contacts with electrical cables, equipment related accidents, and utility damages. To improve the effectiveness of accident prevention programs in trenching operations, the primary causes of trenching accidents and fatalities have to be identified. Developing a database to identify the causes of fatalities in trenching operations is the first step in the development of effective intervention strategies. This paper describes the analysis of trenching-related fatalities based on the National Institutes for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Fatality Assessment and Control Evaluation (FACE) records.

1. Research Assistant, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, U.S.A
2. Associate Professor, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, U.S.A
3. Research Engineer, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, U.S.A
4. George Washington Carver Doctoral Student, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, U.S.A

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