OSHA Cites Construction Labor Services After Two Workers Die in Mobile Manhole Incident
Federal investigators said workers were overcome by sewer gas during sewer line repairs and found the employer lacked confined space entry and rescue programs.
- By Stasia DeMarco
- Feb 17, 2026
A U.S. Department of Labor investigation found numerous safety hazards at a Mobile worksite where Construction Labor Services Inc. workers were exposed to sewage gases, resulting in two fatalities.
Investigators with OSHA said the incident occurred Aug. 11, 2025, when three workers were installing and repairing sewer lines inside a manhole. OSHA said the workers were overcome by sewer gas and became unresponsive.
One worker regained consciousness and managed to self-rescue, while the other two workers died from their injuries.
Federal safety investigators determined that the employer lacked a confined-space entry program, procedures, training, or emergency response plans. OSHA said the company also lacked plans to determine acceptable entry conditions for confined spaces.
OSHA cited Construction Labor Services Inc. with 16 serious violations and proposed penalties of $257,707.
The company has 15 business days from receipt of its citations to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA’s area director, or contest the findings before the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission. Penalties and citations may be adjusted as the case proceeds.
Confined space incidents remain among the most dangerous workplace hazards, particularly in sewer and utility work, where toxic gases can accumulate quickly. OSHA standards require employers to evaluate confined spaces, test atmospheric conditions, provide appropriate protective equipment, and ensure rescue procedures are in place before entry.
About the Author
Stasia DeMarco is the Content Editor for OH&S.