Sun Feb 22 09:40:00 UTC 2026: ### Headline: OSHA Fines Construction Labor Services $257,707 Following Fatal Manhole Incident in Mobile, Alabama
The Story:
On August 11, 2025, a tragic incident occurred in Mobile, Alabama, where three Construction Labor Services workers were overcome by sewer gas while repairing sewer lines inside a manhole. The workers were subcontracted on a project for the Mobile Area Water and Sewer System (MAWSS). One worker managed to self-rescue, but two others, Garrett Robertson, 31, and Herber Rivas, 50, died from their injuries. A subsequent federal investigation by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) revealed critical safety deficiencies on the part of the employer.
Key Points:
- The incident occurred on August 11, 2025, in Mobile, Alabama.
- Two workers, Garrett Robertson and Herber Rivas, died due to sewer gas inhalation.
- Construction Labor Services Inc. was subcontracted by the Mobile Area Water and Sewer System (MAWSS).
- OSHA cited Construction Labor Services Inc. with 16 serious violations.
- Proposed penalties total $257,707.
- The employer lacked confined space entry programs, procedures, training, and emergency response plans.
Key Takeaways:
- The lack of proper confined space entry protocols directly contributed to the fatalities.
- Subcontractors are still responsible for ensuring the safety of their employees, regardless of project ownership.
- OSHA is actively enforcing safety regulations and imposing significant penalties for violations that lead to worker deaths.
- This incident underscores the critical need for comprehensive safety training and emergency preparedness in hazardous work environments.
- The fines levied against Construction Labor Services aim to hold the company accountable and prevent similar tragedies in the future.
First Piper 