OSHA Cites New Jersey Contractor After Fatal Trench Collapse
The agency cites an excavation company for willful safety violations following a fatal trench collapse that killed a 34-year-old worker.
- By Jesse Jacobs
- Mar 04, 2026
A federal investigation into a fatal trench collapse in Moorestown has resulted in multiple citations for a local excavation contractor. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration determined the company failed to implement required cave-in protection systems, leading to the death of a 34-year-old laborer.
Inspectors found the 12-foot-deep trench lacked a trench box or shoring, which are mandatory safety measures for excavations of that depth. OSHA issued willful and serious violations, noting that the employer had been previously cited for similar safety failures at a different job site last year.
According to agency officials, the collapse was entirely preventable if the company had followed established safety standards. Proper trenching and excavation safety protocols, including soil classification and the use of protective systems, are critical to preventing such incidents.
The contractor now faces $161,000 in proposed penalties and has 15 business days to comply, request an informal conference, or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.
About the Author
Jesse Jacobs is assistant editor of OHSOnline.com.