WUCA Celebrates Construction Safety Week 2025

May 5, 2025

Safety is not just a priority in underground construction—it is the foundation upon which our entire industry stands. At WUCA, we are proud to represent members who embody the highest standards of safety and quality, ensuring that every project is completed with care, precision, and the well-being of all workers in mind.


As we join the construction community in observing Construction Safety Week, we want to shine a light on the remarkable efforts of our members who are setting the bar for safety practices in underground infrastructure.


A Culture of Safety: From Policy to Practice

For our members, safety is more than compliance—it is a culture deeply rooted in every aspect of their operations. This commitment is evident in:

  • Investment in Training: Many of our members lead the way by providing comprehensive training programs for their teams. From OSHA certifications to specialized trench safety courses, they ensure that workers are equipped with the knowledge and skills to stay safe on the job.
  • Innovative Safety Solutions: The underground construction industry faces unique risks, but our members rise to the challenge by adopting cutting-edge technologies such as trenchless equipment, advanced monitoring systems, and reinforced protective gear.
  • Community Engagement: Safety doesn't end at the jobsite. By participating in community safety initiatives and collaborating with organizations like the Damage Prevention Council, our members demonstrate a broader commitment to protecting the public and the environment.


Celebrating Safety Achievements

One shining example of this dedication is the ongoing success of the WUCA Safety Committee. Through events like our recent Jobsite Security and Video Surveillance seminar, we continue to provide members with resources and education to address evolving challenges in workplace safety.


We also take great pride in our annual safety awards, which recognize members who demonstrate an outstanding commitment to safety on Wisconsin jobsites. By celebrating contractors who have achieved milestones such as injury-free workdays, innovative project designs that reduce hazards, and leadership in safety advocacy, we highlight their efforts to maintain the highest safety standards and their role in promoting a culture of accountability and care in the industry.



The Future of Safety in Underground Construction

As the underground construction industry evolves, so too does our commitment to safety. From leveraging new technologies to advocating for stronger safety regulations, WUCA and its members are working together to ensure that the standard below ground remains uncompromising.


Join Us in Honoring Safety Excellence

Construction Safety Week is an opportunity to reflect on what matters most: the lives and well-being of the individuals who power this industry. Join us in celebrating the outstanding safety practices of our members, and let’s continue to build a culture where safety and quality go hand in hand.


Together, we are not just setting the standard below ground—we’re redefining it.

Presentation
By Ruth Hackney December 17, 2025
Key takeaways from OSHA’s Milwaukee Area Director on safety programs, inspections, penalties, and compliance resources for contractors.
OSHA, Safety, Construction, Construction Safety
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
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.
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