OSHA Update: What Underground Contractors Should Know

At a recent WUCA safety luncheon, Dustin Schnipke, Milwaukee Area Director for OSHA, shared updates on OSHA’s priorities, initiatives, and what they mean for our industry. More than 50 years after OSHA was established in 1970, workplace fatalities have declined from an estimated 38 per day to 15—but as Dustin emphasized, there is still work to do.


OSHA’s Current Focus
OSHA is placing renewed emphasis on working with small businesses, listening to stakeholders, and strengthening partnerships and collaboration. A key shift is the increased use of compliance assistance—helping employers identify and fix hazards before injuries occur.


Cooperative Programs (Highly Encouraged)
OSHA continues to promote voluntary programs that support safety improvement at every stage:

  • On-Site Consultation (WISCON) – a confidential, no-cost service strongly recommended for contractors
  • Safety & Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP)
  • Alliance Program
  • Strategic Partnership Program
  • Voluntary Protection Program (VPP) – OSHA’s premier safety program (also removes participants from programmed inspections)
  • Safety Champions Program (New) – a three-step introductory program supported by trained Special Government Employees

Learn more at: https://www.osha.gov/cooperative-programs


Campaigns & Emphasis Areas
OSHA’s Safe + Sound Week (August 11–17, 2025) is part of a year-round campaign promoting effective safety and health programs. Contractors should also be aware of OSHA’s emphasis programs, including:

  • Trenching and excavation
  • Heat illness (heat index over 80°F can trigger an inquiry—water, rest, shade, acclimatization, and training are critical)
  • Amputations
  • Site-Specific Targeting (SST) and the construction-focused U-10 List

Heat rulemaking updates are available at: https://www.osha.gov/heat-exposure/rulemaking


Enforcement & Inspections
Approximately 40% of inspections are programmed (targeting high-hazard industries), while 60% are unprogrammed, triggered by complaints, referrals, fatalities, or serious incidents. OSHA takes public complaints seriously.

The inspection process includes credentials, an opening conference, a walkaround, and a closing conference.


Common Citations in Our Industry

  • Ladder violations (3 feet above the landing)
  • Lockout/Tagout
  • Respiratory protection
  • PPE deficiencies


Penalties, Reductions & “Quick Fix”
Penalties increase annually on January 15. New guidance allows up to a 20% reduction, especially for small businesses that promptly abate hazards. A new Quick Fix option applies when hazards are corrected within five days—ask inspectors about it.


Additional Resources



Finally, remember: employee training and written materials must be provided in a language workers can understand. Safety starts with communication—and partnership.

OSHA, Safety, Construction, Construction Safety

Key OSHA Violations from 2025 That Impact Underground & Utility Work

By Ruth Hackney • September 22, 2025
Every year, OSHA releases its list of the most frequently cited violations. The 2025 list is out, and while many industries should pay attention, underground and utility contractors face unique risks that line up with several of the top violations. Here’s a breakdown of the most relevant items, along with trenching and excavation hazards that continue to be a top focus for OSHA inspectors. Fall Protection – General Requirements (1926.501) Falls remain the #1 most cited violation. For underground contractors, the risks aren’t always rooftops—they include falls around trenches, vaults, manholes, ladders, and uneven ground. Proper guardrails, harnesses, and safe working surfaces are essential. Hazard Communication (1910.1200) Chemicals are everywhere on utility jobs: fuels, solvents, coatings, and even the contents of pipes. Employers must ensure proper labeling, Safety Data Sheets (SDS), and worker training to stay compliant. Ladders (1926.1053) Climbing in and out of holes or accessing elevated work is common. Using damaged ladders, setting them up improperly, or failing to secure them leads to frequent citations—and serious injuries. Lockout/Tagout (1910.147) Whether shutting down pumps, isolating electrical lines, or dealing with hydraulic energy, contractors must properly control hazardous energy before starting work. Failure to do so can be fatal. Respiratory Protection (1910.134) Dust, silica, exhaust, and even gas leaks underground make respiratory protection critical. Employers must provide proper respirators, medical clearance, and fit testing. Fall Protection – Training (1926.503) Having equipment isn’t enough—workers must know how to use it. Training ensures employees recognize hazards and properly use fall protection systems. Scaffolding (1926.451) Though more common in building work, scaffolding is sometimes used in utility projects. Improper erection or use can lead to collapse and falls. Eye and Face Protection (1926.102) Flying debris, sparks, fluids, and dust are part of daily life in underground work. OSHA continues to cite employers who don’t provide or enforce PPE use. Trenching & Excavation Hazards – Always a Priority Beyond the top 10 list, OSHA has placed special emphasis on trenching and excavation safety because fatalities remain high. Utility contractors should pay close attention to: Cave-ins: Protective systems (sloping, benching, shoring, shielding) are required. A “competent person” must inspect trenches daily. Spoil piles and equipment placement: Keep soil and heavy equipment at least 2 feet from trench edges. Safe access/egress: Trenches 4 feet deep or more must have ladders, ramps, or stairs within 25 feet of workers. Atmospheric hazards: Test for low oxygen or hazardous gases before entry. Provide ventilation or respiratory protection if needed. Training & competency: Workers and supervisors must be trained to recognize trench hazards. Struck-by hazards: Protect workers from falling tools, materials, and equipment near trench edges. Utility strikes: Always identify and mark underground utilities before digging to avoid catastrophic incidents. Takeaway for Contractors Staying on top of OSHA’s most cited violations isn’t just about compliance—it’s about keeping crews safe and projects on track. Underground and utility contractors should: Refresh fall protection and ladder training. Update hazard communication programs. Review lockout/tagout procedures. Conduct fit testing for respirators. Enforce PPE requirements. Double down on trenching and excavation safety. By focusing on these areas, contractors can reduce risk, protect workers, and stay ahead of OSHA citations. Click Here for the Full Article, Top 10 OSHA Violations of 2025

2026 Mid Winter Conference

By Ruth Hackney • August 22, 2025
Blend southwestern charm with luxury at a historic dude ranch and resort. Guests can enjoy horseback riding across thousands of scenic acres, championship golf, a full-service spa, and warm Western hospitality that’s been a tradition since 1948.

The Case for Continued Federal Investment in Wisconsin’s Water Infrastructure: A Call to Action

By Ruth Hackney • June 23, 2025
Madison, WI — June 23, 2025 — Wisconsin’s water infrastructure is at a critical crossroads with federal investment transforming outdated systems and protecting public health. However, the success of these initiatives depends on sustained funding from Washington, D.C. State and local leaders are urging Congress to make ongoing water infrastructure investment a national priority. Why Continued Federal Support is Crucial Aging Infrastructure Needs: Much of Wisconsin’s water infrastructure is nearing the end of its functional life. Without regular investment, lead service lines, failing wastewater systems, and outdated stormwater management pose significant risks to public health and safety. Emerging Challenges: Contaminants like PFAS, known as “forever chemicals,” threaten water safety in communities across the state. Continued funding ensures we can detect, remove, and prevent these hazards. Economic Impact: Federal funding supports thousands of jobs in construction, engineering, and manufacturing while providing cost savings to municipalities and ratepayers. A lapse in funding could halt these benefits. The Success of Federal Funding So Far Wisconsin has been a model of effective use of federal resources. Since the enactment of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL): The state has received over $900 million for water infrastructure projects. $402 million has been allocated to address emerging contaminants like PFAS. Communities of all sizes have benefited from grants and below-market loans, with special attention given to underserved areas. This progress underscores the need for continued federal support to maintain momentum and address long-standing water issues. A Call to Action for Wisconsin Residents and Leaders “Water infrastructure is the backbone of our communities, safeguarding health and supporting economic growth. We must ask Congress to continue investing in these essential systems,” said Ruth Hackney, Executive Director of WUCA. Continued federal funding will empower Wisconsin to: Replace remaining lead service lines, protecting children and families. Modernize aging wastewater systems to prevent flooding and pollution. Combat PFAS contamination and other emerging threats to water safety. Why Your Voice Matters Wisconsin residents and leaders have the power to influence federal priorities. By contacting elected officials, we can ensure that water infrastructure remains at the forefront of the national agenda. How to Take Action: Contact Your Representatives: Share why clean water matters to your community and ask for ongoing water infrastructure funding in future budgets. Engage Locally: Advocate for projects that showcase the importance of federal funding in your city or town. Stay Informed: Follow updates from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and community organizations championing water initiatives.
More Posts