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	<body xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><div class="basic"><p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_Heading1 style_Heading1 " style="text-align:center; outline-width:1; " xmlns:text="urn:oasis:names:tc:opendocument:xmlns:text:1.0" text:is-list-header="true">United States of America</p>
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				<p style="text-align:center; margin-left:116px; margin-right:103px; "><span style="font-size:12pt; font-weight:bold; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-size:12pt; font-weight:bold; ">OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH REVIEW COMMISSION</span></p>
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							<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_TableParagraph style_TableParagraph " style="margin-left:8.133px; "><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">SECRETARY OF LABOR,</span></p>
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							<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_TableParagraph style_TableParagraph " style="margin-top:8.867px; margin-bottom:0px; margin-left:8.133px; "><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">TEXAS UNDERGROUND UTILITIES, INC.,</span></p>
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							<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_TableParagraph style_TableParagraph " style="margin-top:8.867px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:.453cm; margin-left:148.133px; "><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">Respondent.</span></p>
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				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="text-indent:1.27cm; ">OSHRC Docket No. 20-1565</p>
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				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.733px; margin-bottom:0px; "><span style="font-size:12.5pt; font-weight:bold; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-size:12.5pt; font-weight:bold; "><br/></span> </p>
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				<p style="margin-left:52px; ">Appearances:</p>
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				<p style="margin-left:128.8px; text-indent:-.762cm; margin-right:182.4px; ">Carlton Jackson, Department of Labor, Office of Solicitor, Dallas, Texas, For Complainant</p>
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				<p style="margin-left:128.8px; text-indent:-.762cm; margin-right:218.6px; ">Wayne Duncan, West Texas Safety Solutions, LLC, Spring, Texas, For Respondent</p>
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				<p style="margin-left:52px; ">Before: Judge Christopher D. Helms – U. S. Administrative Law Judge</p>
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				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText "> </p>
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			<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_Heading1 style_Heading1 " style="text-align:center; outline-width:1; " xmlns:text="urn:oasis:names:tc:opendocument:xmlns:text:1.0" text:is-list-header="true"><span style="text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-weight:bold; text-decoration:underline ;">DECISION AND ORDER</span></p>
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				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.133px; margin-bottom:0px; "> </p>
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				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:6px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.133px; ">This matter is before the United States Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission (Commission) pursuant to Section 10(c) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, 29 U.S.C. § 651<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">et seq</span>. (the Act). On October 6, 2020, while driving by a worksite, a Compliance Safety and Health Officer (CSHO) observed two workers inside a trench, which prompted<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>an<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>inspection<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>worksite.<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>As<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>a<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>result<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>that<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>inspection,<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Occupational<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Safety<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>and Health Administration (OSHA) issued a Citation and Notification of Penalty (Citation) to Respondent Texas Underground Utilities, Inc. (Texas Underground). The Citation alleges one serious violation, one repeat-serious violation, and one other-than-serious violation, with total proposed penalties of $26,718.00. Texas Underground timely contested the<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Citation.</p>
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				<p style="line-height:2; text-align:justify; "> </p>
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				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:5.267px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.267px; ">The Chief Administrative Law Judge designated this matter for conventional<span style="letter-spacing:-.049cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>proceedings, and a trial was held on June 27 and July 1, 2022, via Zoom videoconferencing. The following individuals testified: (1) CSHO Keith Thomkins; (2) Zach Draper, Construction Superintendent for<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>general<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>contractor,<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Amtex<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Construction;<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>(3)<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Julio<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Lugo,<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Owner<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Texas<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Underground;<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>and</p>
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				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; ">(4) Juan Diaz, Foreman for the project.</p>
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				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText "> </p>
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				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.4px; ">After the trial concluded, both parties timely filed post-trial briefs, which were considered by<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Court<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>in<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>reaching<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>its<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>decision.<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Pursuant<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>to<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Commission<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Rule<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>90,<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>after<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>hearing<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>and<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>carefully considering<span style="letter-spacing:-.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>all<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>evidence<span style="letter-spacing:-.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>and<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>arguments<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>counsel,<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Court<span style="letter-spacing:-.028cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>issues<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>this<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Decision<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>and<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Order as its findings of fact and conclusions of law. For the reasons discussed, Citation 1, Item 1 and Citation 3, Item 1, are vacated. Citation 2, Item 1 is<span style="letter-spacing:-.004cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>affirmed.</p>
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				<span style="font-family:Times New Roman; font-weight:bold; width: 99;padding-right:20px;">I.</span>Stipulations &<span style="letter-spacing:-.002cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-weight:bold; "><span><span></span>
					</span></span>Jurisdiction</p>
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				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText "> </p>
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				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.333px; ">The parties stipulated to several matters, including the jurisdiction of this Court over this proceeding and the parties before it.<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">See<span>
						</span></span>Joint Stipulation Statement (J. Stip.) at 1. The parties submitted the Joint Stipulation Statement to the Court prior to trial and entered the stipulations into the record. (Tr. 10). The Court shall incorporate by reference the Joint Stipulations and refer to them as necessary in this decision.</p>
			</div>
			<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_Heading1 style_Heading1 " style="text-align:left; margin-left:100px; text-indent:-1.27cm; text-align:left; margin-top:.067px; margin-bottom:0px; text-align:justify; margin-left:100px; text-indent:-1.27cm; margin-top:.067px; margin-bottom:0px; text-align:justify; ">
				<span style="font-family:Times New Roman; font-weight:bold; width: 99;padding-right:20px;">III.</span>Factual<span style="letter-spacing:-.002cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-weight:bold; "><span><span></span>
					</span></span>Background</p>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.267px; ">On October 6, 2020, CSHO Thomkins drove past a construction site and observed two workers in a trench. (Tr. 20). He pulled over and took photographs from outside the site before entering.<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>(Tr.<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>21).<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>He<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>presented<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>his<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>credentials<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>to<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Mr.<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Draper<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>and<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>held<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>an<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>opening<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>conference<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>with Mr.<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Diaz.<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>(Tr.<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>22).<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Jose<span style="letter-spacing:-.004cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Vera,<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Superintendent<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>for<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Texas<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Underground,<span style="letter-spacing:-.002cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>was<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>on<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>site<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>that<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>day<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>but did not speak with the CSHO. (Tr. 194, 305). The CSHO then proceeded to the trench, where he took<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>measurements<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>and<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>photographs<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>and<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>conducted<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>employee<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>interviews.<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>(Tr.<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>23).<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>The<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>excavation</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p style="line-height:2; text-align:justify; "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:5.267px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; margin-right:38.533px; ">work had started less than an hour before his arrival and was still in progress. (Tr. 338). Mr. Diaz told the CSHO that workers had been in the trench for 5 to 10 minutes before the CSHO arrived, although the CSHO believed they might have been in the trench longer because he saw evidence of ongoing work: a shovel, a hammer, and some busted concrete in the bottom of the excavation near the storm box. (Tr. 30-32).</p>
			</div>
			<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_Heading1 style_Heading1 " style="text-align:left; margin-left:124px; text-indent:-.635cm; text-align:left; text-align:justify; margin-left:124px; text-indent:-.635cm; text-align:justify; ">
				<span style="font-family:Times New Roman; font-weight:bold; letter-spacing:-.002cm; width: 99;padding-right:20px;">A.</span><span style="text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-weight:bold; text-decoration:underline ;">Inspection of the</span><span style="letter-spacing:-.004cm; text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-weight:bold; text-decoration:underline ;"><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-weight:bold; text-decoration:underline ;">Trench</span></p>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.2px; margin-bottom:0px; "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:6px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.333px; ">The CSHO measured the length of the trench as 25 feet. (Tr. 36, Ex. C-6). The width of the trench floor was 3 feet (Tr. 93), and the width of the trench opening was 10 feet 3 inches (Tr. 51).<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>A<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>pipe<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>inside<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>trench<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>measured<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>20<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>feet<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>long.<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>(Tr.<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>36,<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>38,<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>40,<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Ex.<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>C-6).<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>A<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>ladder<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>rested<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>along the trench’s wall on the west end, and the angle of that ladder was approximately 75 degrees. (Tr. 39, 48; Ex. C-2, at 8). Also on the west end of the trench was a concrete box measuring approximately 3 feet long, 3 feet wide, and 3 feet high. (Tr. 38, 48, 299). The wall on the western end of the trench measured 7 feet deep, while other sections of the trench measured 4 1⁄2 to 5 feet deep. (Tr. 35, 43,<span style="letter-spacing:.002cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>47-48).</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.067px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.133px; ">During his inspection, the CSHO noticed a section of concrete located approximately two feet below grade that protruded from the walls of the excavation. (Tr. 25; Ex. C-2, at 3). The concrete was not supported. (Tr. 25). A piece of metal rebar protruded from the concrete, and a metal trench flagpole rested alongside. (Tr. 29; Ex. 2, at 2; Ex. C-11, at 20). There was also a power<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>saw<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>near<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>flagpole<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>at<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>opening<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>trench.<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>(Tr.<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>31).<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>The<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>concrete<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>section<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>was<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>located 25 feet away from the storm box on the opposite end of the trench. (Ex. 2, at 3). When the CSHO asked<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Mr.<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Diaz<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>about<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>concrete,<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Mr.<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Diaz<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>explained<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>crew<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>had<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>discovered<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>it<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>while<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>they<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>were digging. (Tr.<span style="letter-spacing:-.002cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>33).</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p style="line-height:2; text-align:justify; "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:5.267px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:1.9791666666666667; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.2px; ">The excavation at issue was dug into Type B soil (J. Stip. at 11), and a “bench” was cut into<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>trench<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>walls<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>(Tr.<span style="letter-spacing:-.002cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>40).<span style="font-size:8pt; position:relative; top:-4.5pt;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-size:8pt; ">1</span><span style="font-size:8pt; letter-spacing:.028cm; position:relative; top:-4.5pt;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-size:8pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Subpart<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>P,<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Appendix<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>B<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>29<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>C.F.R.<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>§<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>1926<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>sets<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>forth<span style="letter-spacing:-.004cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>standards for using a benching system in excavations. (Tr. 52-53). Under the regulation, Type B soil should be<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>benched<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>or<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>sloped<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>to<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>45<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>degrees.<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>(Tr.<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>53).<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Here,<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>CSHO<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>measured<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>first<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>wall<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>bench (from the floor to the shelf) as 4 1⁄2 feet to 5 feet high, depending on where the measurement was taken along the trench. (Tr. 39-40, 49, 50). At the top of the first wall of the bench was a shelf, which<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>measured<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>2<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>feet<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>wide.<span style="font-size:8pt; position:relative; top:-4.5pt;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-size:8pt; ">2</span><span style="font-size:8pt; letter-spacing:.023cm; position:relative; top:-4.5pt;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-size:8pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>(Tr.<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>40).<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>The<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>second<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>wall<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>bench<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>(from<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>shelf<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>to<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>surface) measured 2 feet high. (Tr.<span style="letter-spacing:-.002cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>49).</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:1px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.4px; ">The CSHO based some of his measurements, such as the width of the trench floor and the dimensions of the storm box, on representations made by Mr. Diaz because the CSHO could not safely access the trench floor. (Tr. 93). The CSHO also admitted that some of his measurements were “approximates,” meaning they were not down to the inch because trench walls and soil conditions vary. (Tr. 95-96).</p>
			</div>
			<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_Heading1 style_Heading1 " style="text-align:left; margin-left:124px; text-indent:-.635cm; text-align:left; text-align:justify; margin-left:124px; text-indent:-.635cm; text-align:justify; ">
				<span style="font-family:Times New Roman; font-weight:bold; letter-spacing:-.002cm; width: 99;padding-right:20px;">B.</span><span style="text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-weight:bold; text-decoration:underline ;">Interviews with</span><span style="letter-spacing:-.002cm; text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-weight:bold; text-decoration:underline ;"><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-weight:bold; text-decoration:underline ;">Employees</span></p>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.133px; margin-bottom:0px; "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:6px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.2px; ">Once the CSHO finished measuring the trench, he interviewed Mr. Diaz without the assistance<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>an<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>interpreter.<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>(Tr.<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>359).<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Mr.<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Diaz<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>shared<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>following<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>information,<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>which<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>CSHO documented on a form signed by Mr.<span style="letter-spacing:-.004cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Diaz:</p>
			</div>
			<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_ListParagraph style_ListParagraph " style="text-align:left; margin-left:124px; text-indent:-.635cm; text-align:left; margin-top:.067px; margin-bottom:0px; text-align:justify; margin-left:124px; text-indent:-.635cm; margin-top:.067px; margin-bottom:0px; text-align:justify; ">
				<span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; letter-spacing:-.004cm; width: 99;padding-right:20px;">1.</span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">Mr. Diaz has had trenching and excavation training, but not with Texas</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">Underground.</span></p>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.733px; margin-bottom:0px; "> </p>
			</div>
			<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_ListParagraph style_ListParagraph " style="text-align:left; margin-left:124px; text-indent:-.635cm; text-align:left; text-align:justify; margin-left:124px; text-indent:-.635cm; text-align:justify; ">
				<span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; letter-spacing:-.004cm; width: 99;padding-right:20px;">2.</span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">Mr. Diaz did not know whether the other employees had received</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">training.</span></p>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.067px; margin-bottom:0px; "> </p>
			</div>
			<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_ListParagraph style_ListParagraph " style="text-align:left; margin-left:124px; text-indent:-.635cm; text-align:left; text-align:justify; margin-left:124px; text-indent:-.635cm; text-align:justify; ">
				<span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; letter-spacing:-.004cm; width: 99;padding-right:20px;">3.</span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">A bench system was used because the trench was not deep enough for a trench</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">box.</span></p>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText "> </p>
			</div>
			<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_ListParagraph style_ListParagraph " style="text-align:left; margin-left:124px; text-indent:-.635cm; text-align:left; text-align:justify; margin-left:124px; text-indent:-.635cm; text-align:justify; ">
				<span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; letter-spacing:-.004cm; width: 99;padding-right:20px;">4.</span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">The concrete section was discovered once the crew started</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.004cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">digging.</span></p>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText "> </p>
			</div>
			<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_ListParagraph style_ListParagraph " style="text-align:left; margin-left:124px; text-indent:-.635cm; text-align:left; margin-left:124px; text-indent:-.635cm; margin-right:38.533px; ">
				<span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; letter-spacing:-.004cm; width: 99;padding-right:20px;">5.</span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">Hector Castillo and Miguel Sevilla were working in the trench for about 10 minutes before the CSHO inspector</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">arrived.</span></p>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.333px; margin-bottom:0px; "><div><img style="" alt="Freeform 4" height="NaN" width="193" align="left" xmlns="http://schemas.openxmlformats.org/package/2006/relationships"/></div> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:2.533px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:.501cm; margin-left:52px; "><span style="font-size:8pt; position:relative; top:-4.5pt;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-size:8pt; ">1<span>
						</span></span>Benching allows sloping of the trench walls to avoid collapsing soil. (Tr. 60).</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="line-height:.501cm; margin-left:52px; "><span style="font-size:8pt; position:relative; top:-4.5pt;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-size:8pt; ">2<span>
						</span></span>The CSHO sometimes refers to the shelf as a step. (<span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">See<span>
						</span></span>Tr. 39).</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p style="line-height:.501cm; "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.667px; margin-bottom:0px; "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:6px; margin-bottom:0px; margin-left:52px; ">(Tr. 322-28; Ex. C-9, at 1).</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.467px; ">At trial, Mr. Diaz confirmed these statements were accurate but explained he did not understand what the form was other than an acknowledgement that the inspection occurred. (Tr. 321-28).<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>He<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>testified<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>that<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>his<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>spoken<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>English<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>“is<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>not<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>perfect”<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>and<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>that<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>he<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>cannot<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>read<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>much<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>English. (Tr. 320). He also stated that he was charged with ensuring the safety of his workers on site. (Tr. 294).</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.067px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.4px; ">After speaking with Mr. Diaz, the CSHO interviewed Hector Castillo with the assistance of Mr. Fuentes, another worker who served as translator. (Tr. 72). Mr. Castillo stated he had been employed by Texas Underground for about a week and never received training. (Tr. 72).</p>
			</div>
			<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_Heading1 style_Heading1 " style="text-align:left; margin-left:124px; text-indent:-.635cm; text-align:left; text-align:justify; margin-left:124px; text-indent:-.635cm; text-align:justify; ">
				<span style="font-family:Times New Roman; font-weight:bold; letter-spacing:-.002cm; width: 99;padding-right:20px;">C.</span><span style="text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-weight:bold; text-decoration:underline ;">Citation</span></p>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.133px; margin-bottom:0px; "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:6px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.133px; ">The day after the inspection, the CSHO asked Texas Underground to provide training documentation or certifications, but Texas Underground did not respond to his request. (Tr. 73). When researching the company, the CSHO discovered that Texas Underground had been previously<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>cited<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>by<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>OSHA<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>for<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>failure<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>to<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>provide<span style="letter-spacing:-.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>its<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>employees<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>with<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>adequate<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>protection<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>from<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>cave- ins during an excavation. (Tr. 65-66; Ex. C-8). That citation, which was issued on June 13, 2017, involved a trench that was a little over 9 feet deep in previously disturbed Class B soil. (Ex. C-8, at<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>13).<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>One<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>walls<span style="letter-spacing:-.002cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>was<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>improperly<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>benched,<span style="letter-spacing:-.002cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>and<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>slope<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>on<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>both<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>walls<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>was<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>steeper<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>than<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the requisite<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>45-degrees.<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>(<span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Id.</span>).<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>The<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>citation<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>noted<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>that<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>employees<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>were<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>exposed<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>to<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>a<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>crushed-by<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>hazard when working in the trench without adequate cave-in protection. (<span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Id.<span>
						</span></span>at 8). The citation became a final order on June 27, 2017. (Tr. 69-70; Ex. C-8, at<span style="letter-spacing:-.002cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>17-19).</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.133px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.4px; ">The CSHO ultimately concluded that Texas Underground committed three violations. First, he cited Texas Underground for failing to protect employees working in the trench from surface encumbrances, in violation of 29 C.F.R. § 1926.651(a). Specifically, the CSHO<span>
					</span>believed</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p style="line-height:2; text-align:justify; "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:5.267px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; margin-right:38.2px; ">the<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>section<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>concrete<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>posed<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>a<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>struck-by<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>hazard<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>to<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>employees<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>working<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>inside<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>trench<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>and<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Texas Underground should have supported or removed the concrete or installed a trench box. (Tr. 34). Second, he cited Texas Underground for failing to protect employees working in the trench from cave-ins, in violation of 29 C.F.R. § 1926.652(a)(1). He classified the citation as repeat<span>
					</span>in light<span style="letter-spacing:-.034cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span><span></span>
					</span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>2017<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>citation:<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>both<span style="letter-spacing:-.004cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>trenches<span style="letter-spacing:-.002cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>exceeded<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>5<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>feet<span style="letter-spacing:-.004cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>in<span style="letter-spacing:-.002cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>depth,<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>were<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>improperly<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>sloped,<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>and<span style="letter-spacing:-.004cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>did<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>not<span style="letter-spacing:-.004cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>use a trench box. (Tr. 65-70). Lastly, he cited Texas Underground for failing to instruct its employees about recognizing and avoiding unsafe conditions or to control or eliminate hazards, in violation of 29 C.F.R. §<span style="letter-spacing:-.004cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>1926.21(b)(2).</p>
			</div>
			<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_Heading1 style_Heading1 " style="text-align:left; margin-left:100px; text-indent:-1.27cm; text-align:left; margin-top:.067px; margin-bottom:0px; text-align:justify; margin-left:100px; text-indent:-1.27cm; margin-top:.067px; margin-bottom:0px; text-align:justify; ">
				<span style="font-family:Times New Roman; font-weight:bold; width: 99;padding-right:20px;">IV.</span>Discussion</p>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-left:100px; ">To establish the violation of a safety standard under the Act, the Secretary<span>
					</span><span style="letter-spacing:.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>must prove:</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; ">(1)<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>cited<span style="letter-spacing:.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>standard<span style="letter-spacing:.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>applies;<span style="letter-spacing:.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>(2)<span style="letter-spacing:.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>employer<span style="letter-spacing:.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>failed<span style="letter-spacing:.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>to<span style="letter-spacing:.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>comply<span style="letter-spacing:.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>with<span style="letter-spacing:.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>terms<span style="letter-spacing:.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>that<span style="letter-spacing:.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>standard;</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText "> </p>
			</div>
			<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_ListParagraph style_ListParagraph " style="text-align:left; margin-left:52px; text-indent:-.577cm; text-align:left; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:0cm; margin-right:38.267px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; ">
				<span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; width: 99;padding-right:20px;">(1)</span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">employees</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">had</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">access</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">to</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">the</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">hazardous</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">condition</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">covered</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">by</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">the</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">standard;</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">and</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">(4)</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:.002cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">the</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">employer knew, or with the exercise of reasonable diligence could have known, of the violative condition.<span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Atl. Battery Co.</span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">, No. 90-1747, 1994 WL 682922, at *15 (OSHRC, Dec. 5, 1994). The Secretary has</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">the</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">burden</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">of</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">establishing</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">each</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">element</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">by</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">a</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">preponderance</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">of</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">the</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">evidence.</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Hartford</span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Roofing Co.</span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">, No. 92-3855, 1995 WL 555498 at *6 (OSHRC, Sept. 15, 1995).</span></p>
			<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_Heading1 style_Heading1 " style="text-align:left; margin-left:124px; text-indent:-.635cm; text-align:left; margin-top:.067px; margin-bottom:0px; text-align:justify; margin-left:124px; text-indent:-.635cm; margin-top:.067px; margin-bottom:0px; text-align:justify; ">
				<span style="font-family:Times New Roman; font-weight:bold; letter-spacing:-.002cm; width: 99;padding-right:20px;">A.</span><span style="text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-weight:bold; text-decoration:underline ;">Citation 1, Item</span><span style="letter-spacing:.002cm; text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-weight:bold; text-decoration:underline ;"><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-weight:bold; text-decoration:underline ;">1</span></p>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.133px; margin-bottom:0px; "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:6px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:32.667px; ">The CSHO cited Texas Underground for failing to secure a section of concrete located along one of the trench walls. Citation 1, Item 1 alleged a serious violation of 29 C.F.R.</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.067px; margin-bottom:0px; margin-left:52px; ">§ 1926.651(a), which provides:</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-left:100px; margin-right:64.667px; ">All surface encumbrances that were located<span>
					</span>so as to<span><span></span>
					</span>create a hazard to employees were not removed or supported, as necessary, to safeguard employees.</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-left:52px; ">The Secretary described the serious violation as follows:</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:5.267px; margin-bottom:0px; text-align:justify; margin-left:100px; margin-right:86.4px; ">On or about October 6, 2020, at or near the intersection of Imperial Valley Dr.<span style="letter-spacing:-.041cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>and<span>
					</span>Richcrest<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Dr.,<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>where<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>employees<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>were<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>exposed<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>to<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>a<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>struck-by<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>hazard<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>when<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>working in an excavation without protection from surface encumbrances.</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="line-height:2; margin-left:52px; margin-right:14px; ">Citation at 8. Texas Underground disputes that there was a violation and that employees were exposed to a hazard.</p>
			</div>
			<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_ListParagraph style_ListParagraph " style="text-align:left; margin-left:124px; text-indent:-.635cm; text-align:left; margin-left:124px; text-indent:-.635cm; ">
				<span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; letter-spacing:-.004cm; width: 99;padding-right:20px;">1.</span><span style="font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;">The Standard</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.005cm; text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;"><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;">Applies</span></p>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.133px; margin-bottom:0px; "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:6px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.533px; ">The work at issue involved a trench. 29 C.F.R. § 1926.650(a) provides: “This subpart applies to all open excavations made in the earth’s surface. Excavations are defined to include trenches.” Accordingly, the standard applies.</p>
			</div>
			<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_ListParagraph style_ListParagraph " style="text-align:left; margin-left:124px; text-indent:-.635cm; text-align:left; margin-top:.067px; margin-bottom:0px; text-align:justify; margin-left:124px; text-indent:-.635cm; margin-top:.067px; margin-bottom:0px; text-align:justify; ">
				<span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; letter-spacing:-.004cm; width: 99;padding-right:20px;">2.</span><span style="font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;">The Secretary Failed to Establish a Violation of the</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.004cm; text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;"><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;">Standard</span></p>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.133px; margin-bottom:0px; "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:6px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.4px; ">The Court now turns to whether the Secretary established that the section of concrete was a<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>“surface<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>encumbrance”<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>such<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>that<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Texas<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Underground<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>violated<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>standard.<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Texas<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Underground argues<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>section<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>concrete<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>was<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>located<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>below<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>grade<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>and<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>along<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>wall<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>excavation,<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>which means<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>it<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>was<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>not<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>a<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>“surface<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>encumbrance.”<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>The<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Secretary<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>did<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>not<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>address<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>meaning<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>“surface encumbrance” in her post-trial<span style="letter-spacing:-.004cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>brief.</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.067px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.4px; ">The term “surface encumbrance” is not defined in the standard, so the Court must determine what “surface” means. “An Occupational Safety and Health standard must give an employer fair warning of the conduct it prohibits, and it must provide a reasonably clear standard of culpability, to limit the discretion available to the enforcing officers.”<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Austin Com. v. Occupational Safety and Health Review Comm’n</span>, 610 F.2d 200, 201 (5th Cir. 1979) (internal citation omitted). “The standard must be construed to give effect to the natural and plain meaning of its words.”<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Id.<span>
						</span></span>“If the meaning of [regulatory] language is ‘sufficiently clear,’ the inquiry ends there.”<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Beverly Healthcare-Hillview</span>, No. 04-1091, 2006 WL 2781629, at * 2) (OSHRC, Sept.<span style="letter-spacing:-.058cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>18, 2006)<span style="letter-spacing:.081cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>(consolidated)<span style="letter-spacing:.083cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>(citation<span style="letter-spacing:.083cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>omitted),<span style="letter-spacing:.086cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">aff’d</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:.083cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">in</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:.083cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">relevant</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:.085cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">part</span>,<span style="letter-spacing:.081cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>541<span style="letter-spacing:.088cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>F.3d<span style="letter-spacing:.083cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>193<span style="letter-spacing:.081cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>(3d<span style="letter-spacing:.083cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Cir.<span style="letter-spacing:.083cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>2008).</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p style="line-height:2; text-align:justify; "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:5.267px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; margin-right:38.467px; ">However, “[t]he<span>
					</span>meaning—or ambiguity—of certain words or phrases may only become evident when placed in context.”<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Id.</span>;<span><span></span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">see also Otis Elevator Co</span>., No. 09-1278, 2013 WL 3998034, at *6,<span>
					</span>fn<span><span></span>
					</span>10) (reviewing language of the cited provision “along with the structure and context of the standard” to determine the scope of the standard).</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.267px; ">Here, the word “surface” is not ambiguous. Its plain meaning, when used as an adjective, is<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>normally<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>understood<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>to<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>mean<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>“of,<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>located<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>on,<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>or<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>designated<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>for<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>use<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>at<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>surface<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>something” or “situated...on the surface of the earth.”<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Surface</span>, Merriam-Webster online,<span>
					</span><a href="http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/surface"><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">https://w</span></a><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">ww.me</span><a href="http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/surface"><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">rriam-webster.com/dictionary/surface</span>,</a><span><span></span>
					</span>(accessed June 2, 2023);<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">see Asbestos Textile Co</span>.,<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Inc</span>., No. 79-3831, 1984 WL 34962, at *5 (OSHRC, Oct. 31, 1984) (using dictionary definition for unambiguous undefined term). And, even if “surface” was considered ambiguous, this definition is supported within the context of the regulation.<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">See Superior Masonry Builders, Inc</span>.,<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>No.<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>96-1043,<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>2003<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>WL<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>21525277,<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>at<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>*2<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>(OSHRC,<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>July<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>3,<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>2003)<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>(a<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>court<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>may<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>look<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>to<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>text and structure of the standard for<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>guidance).</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.133px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.6px; ">Although “surface” is undefined, the standard does define<span>
					</span><span style="letter-spacing:.004cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">the<span>
						</span></span>terms “side” or “face” as “the vertical or inclined earth surfaces formed as a result of excavation work.” 29<span style="letter-spacing:.09cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>C.F.R.</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; margin-right:38.267px; ">§ 1926.650 (B). And the standard sets forth requirements for underground—as opposed to surface—installations, like sewers and other utilities, as well as hazards that might fall from the excavation “face.” 29 C.F.R. § 1926.651(b), (j). “Surface” cannot mean the same thing as “side,” “face,”<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>or<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>“underground.”<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Cf.</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Basic</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Energy</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Servs.</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">v.</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Occupational</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Safety</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">&</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Health</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Rev.</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Comm’n</span>, 666 F.<span>
					</span>App’x<span><span></span>
					</span>364, 367 (5th Cir. 2016) (unpublished) (explaining that a canon of statutory interpretation is that “identical words used in different parts of the same act are intended to have the same meaning”) (quoting<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Sullivan v. Stroop</span>, 496 U.S. 478, 484 (1990)). The regulation’s<span style="letter-spacing:.097cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>use</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p style="line-height:2; text-align:justify; "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:5.267px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; margin-right:39.067px; ">of the words “surface,” “underground,” “side,” and “face” suggest different locations where hazards might be present.</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.467px; ">After careful review, the Court concludes the surface encumbrance standard was intended to target hazards located at ground level or, in other words, the earth’s surface. This is consistent with other cases applying the surface encumbrance standard.<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">See, e.g., Rawson Contractors, Inc.</span>, No.<span style="letter-spacing:.039cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>99-0018,<span style="letter-spacing:.042cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>2003<span style="letter-spacing:.044cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>WL<span style="letter-spacing:.049cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>1889143,<span style="letter-spacing:.039cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>at<span style="letter-spacing:.042cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>*4<span style="letter-spacing:.046cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>(OSHRC,<span style="letter-spacing:.042cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>May<span style="letter-spacing:.039cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>18,<span style="letter-spacing:.044cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>2017)<span style="letter-spacing:.044cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>(tree<span style="letter-spacing:.042cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>adjacent<span style="letter-spacing:.041cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>to<span style="letter-spacing:.042cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:.039cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>trench);</p>
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			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.067px; margin-bottom:0px; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; "><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Freund</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:.051cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">&</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:.053cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Co.</span>,<span style="letter-spacing:.055cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>No.<span style="letter-spacing:.051cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>89-0640,<span style="letter-spacing:.055cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>1990<span style="letter-spacing:.051cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>WL<span style="letter-spacing:.053cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>122680,<span style="letter-spacing:.051cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>at<span style="letter-spacing:.055cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>*2<span style="letter-spacing:.051cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>(OSHRC,<span style="letter-spacing:.055cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Apr.<span style="letter-spacing:.051cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>23,<span style="letter-spacing:.053cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>1990)<span style="letter-spacing:.051cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>(5,500-pound</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; margin-right:38.333px; ">electrical box adjacent to the trench);<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">W. L. Cobb Const. Co.</span>, No. 9157, 1975 WL 21709, at *9 (OSHRC ALJ, Feb. 25, 1979) (brick median near the excavation). This is also consistent with OSHA<span style="letter-spacing:-.028cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>directives<span style="letter-spacing:-.028cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>providing<span style="letter-spacing:-.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>compliance<span style="letter-spacing:-.03cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>guidance<span style="letter-spacing:-.03cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>for<span style="letter-spacing:-.028cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.028cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>excavation<span style="letter-spacing:-.028cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>standard.<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">See</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.028cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>OSHA<span style="letter-spacing:-.028cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Directive Number CPL 02-00-165 (July 1, 2021) (listing “curbs, roads, trees, utility poles and other structures adjoining the excavation” as examples of potential surface<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>encumbrances).</p>
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			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.2px; ">Here, the record demonstrates the section of concrete was located on the trench face, not the surface, so there can be no violation of the surface encumbrance standard. Moreover, the Secretary<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>has<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>not<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>explained<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>how<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>section<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>concrete<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>constitutes<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>a<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>surface<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>encumbrance<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>or<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>cited any<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>case<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>law<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>applying<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>standard<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>in<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>such<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>a<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>way.<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">See</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Worcester</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Steel</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Erectors,</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Inc</span>.,<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>No.<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>89-1206, 1993 WL 387711, at *12 (OSHRC, Sept. 29, 1993) (“Adoption of a strained interpretation does not serve the purposes of the Act, for the occupational safety and health standards must provide employers<span style="letter-spacing:-.03cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>sufficient<span style="letter-spacing:-.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>pre-enforcement<span style="letter-spacing:-.028cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>guidance<span style="letter-spacing:-.03cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>to<span style="letter-spacing:-.028cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>conform<span style="letter-spacing:-.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>their<span style="letter-spacing:-.03cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>conduct<span style="letter-spacing:-.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>to<span style="letter-spacing:-.028cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.028cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>actual<span style="letter-spacing:-.028cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>requirements to which they will be held in any enforcement proceeding.”). Accordingly, the Secretary failed to establish a violation of the<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>standard.</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p style="line-height:2; text-align:justify; "> </p>
			</div>
			<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_ListParagraph style_ListParagraph " style="text-align:left; margin-left:124px; text-indent:-.635cm; text-align:left; margin-top:5.267px; margin-bottom:0px; margin-left:124px; text-indent:-.635cm; margin-top:5.267px; margin-bottom:0px; ">
				<span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; letter-spacing:-.004cm; width: 99;padding-right:20px;">3.</span><span style="font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;">The Secretary Failed to Establish the Existence of a</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.004cm; text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;"><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;">Hazard</span></p>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.133px; margin-bottom:0px; "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:6px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.4px; ">Likewise,<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Secretary<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>provided<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>insufficient<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>evidence<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>that<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>section<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>concrete<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>exposed workers to a hazard. Generally, the existence of a hazard is “presumed in safety standards unless the regulation requires [OSHA] to prove it.”<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Sanderson Farms, Inc. v. Perez</span>, 811 F.3d 730, 735 (5th Cir. 2016). However, the language of the surface encumbrance standard by its own terms requires<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>proof<span style="letter-spacing:-.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>existence<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>a<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>hazard<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>before<span style="letter-spacing:-.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>compliance<span style="letter-spacing:-.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>with<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>standard<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>is<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>required.<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Rawson Contractors,</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Inc.</span>,<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>No.<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>99-0018,<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>2003<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>WL<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>1889143,<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>at<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>*4<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>(OSHRC,<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Apr.<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>4,<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>2003).<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Here,<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>29<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>C.F.R.</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.067px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; margin-right:38.467px; ">§ 1926.651(a) requires precautions be taken “as necessary” to safeguard employees from surface encumbrances that are located<span>
					</span>so as to<span><span></span>
					</span>create a hazard. Therefore, the Secretary must prove that the section of concrete was located<span>
					</span>so as to<span><span></span>
					</span>create a hazard to employees.</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.4px; ">The<span style="letter-spacing:-.028cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Secretary<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>relies<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>on<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>CSHO’s<span style="letter-spacing:-.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>inspection<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>report<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>and<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>testimony<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>that<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.028cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>concrete<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>posed a crushed-by hazard. At trial, the CSHO pointed to photographs taken at the site to demonstrate that the concrete was overhanging and could injure a worker. However, he does not provide any support<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>for<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>that<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>belief.<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>And,<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>although<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Court<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>may<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>rely<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>on<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>photographs<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>depicting<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>a<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>hazard,<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>it<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>can only do so if the testimony supports such reliance.<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">See Am. Wrecking Corp.</span>, 351 F.3d 1254, 1262 (D.C.<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Cir.<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>2003)<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>(“The<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>ALJ<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>and<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Commission<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>were<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>therefore<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>entitled<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>to<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>rely<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>on<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>photograph as an accurate depiction of the scene of the violation before the accident . . . The photograph, together<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>with<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>expert<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>testimony<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>based<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>upon<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>it,<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>constitutes<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>substantial<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>evidence<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>in<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>support<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the Commission’s finding that AWC violated the<span style="letter-spacing:-.004cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>standard.”).</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.133px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.4px; ">Here,<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>photographs<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>do<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>not<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>clearly<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>show<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>section<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>concrete<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>posed<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>a<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>struck-by<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>hazard.<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Cf. Brickfield Builders, Inc.</span>, No. 93-2801,1995 WL 82302, at *1 (OSHRC, Feb. 24, 1995) (rejecting the ALJ’s credibility findings because the photographic evidence supported a different outcome).<span style="letter-spacing:.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Moreover,<span style="letter-spacing:.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:.03cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>CSHO’s<span style="letter-spacing:.028cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>conclusory<span style="letter-spacing:.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>testimony<span style="letter-spacing:.028cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>on<span style="letter-spacing:.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>this<span style="letter-spacing:.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>point<span style="letter-spacing:.028cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>is<span style="letter-spacing:.028cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>insufficient<span style="letter-spacing:.03cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>to<span style="letter-spacing:.028cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>establish</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p style="line-height:2; text-align:justify; "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p style="margin-top:5.267px; margin-bottom:0px; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; "><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-size:12pt; ">the existence of a hazard.<span>
						</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">See El Paso Crane and Rigging Co.</span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-size:12pt; ">, No. 90-1106, 1993 WL 393508, at</span></p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; margin-right:38.333px; ">*9 (OSHRC, Sept. 30, 1993) (holding that a compliance officer’s unspecific and conclusory opinions, without factual basis or reasoning, is entitled to little weight). There is nothing else in the<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>record<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>showing<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>that<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>section<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>concrete<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>could<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>have<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>fallen.<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Accordingly,<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Secretary<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>failed to establish the existence of a<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>hazard.</p>
			</div>
			<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_ListParagraph style_ListParagraph " style="text-align:left; margin-left:124px; text-indent:-.635cm; text-align:left; text-align:justify; margin-left:124px; text-indent:-.635cm; text-align:justify; ">
				<span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; letter-spacing:-.004cm; width: 99;padding-right:20px;">4.</span><span style="font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;">The Secretary Established</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.004cm; text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;"><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;">Exposure</span></p>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.533px; margin-bottom:0px; "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.4px; ">The Court next turns to the element of exposure.<span style="font-size:8pt; position:relative; top:-4.5pt;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-size:8pt; ">3<span>
						</span></span>Texas Underground argues that workers were not exposed to any hazard posed by the section of concrete because they were working on the<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>opposite<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>side<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>trench<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>and<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>had<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>no<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>reason<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>to<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>be<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>near<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>concrete.<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>The<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Secretary<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>argues<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>that workers were in the trench and thus were exposed to the<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>hazard.</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.067px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.333px; ">The Secretary can establish employee exposure to a violative condition by showing either “actual exposure” or, alternatively, “that access to the hazard was reasonably predictable.”<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Gate Precast Co.</span>, No. 15-1347, 2020 WL 2141954, at *2 (OSHRC, Apr. 28, 2020) (citations and quotation marks omitted). “In determining whether the Secretary has proven access to the<span style="letter-spacing:-.035cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>hazard, the ‘inquiry is not simply into whether exposure is theoretically possible,’ but whether it is reasonably predictable ‘either by operational necessity or otherwise (including inadvertence),<span style="letter-spacing:-.058cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>that employees have been, are, or will be in the zone of danger.’”<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Nuprecon</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Lp</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span>Dba<span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Nuprecon</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span>Acquisition</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Lp</span>,<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>No.<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>08-1037,<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>2012<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>WL<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>525154,<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>at<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>*2<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>(OSHRC,<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Feb.<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>7,<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>2012)<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>(quoting<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Fabricated Metal Prods., Inc</span>., No. 93-1853, 1997 WL 694096, at *2 (OSHRC, Nov. 7, 1997)). “The zone of danger<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>is<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>that<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>area<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>surrounding<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>violative<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>condition<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>that<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>presents<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>danger<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>to<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>employees<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>which</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.467px; margin-bottom:0px; "><div><img style="" alt="Freeform 3" height="NaN" width="193" align="left" xmlns="http://schemas.openxmlformats.org/package/2006/relationships"/></div> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:2.533px; margin-bottom:0px; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; margin-right:38.333px; "><span style="font-size:8pt; position:relative; top:-4.5pt;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-size:8pt; ">3<span>
						</span></span>In the previous subsection, the Court concluded the Secretary failed to establish the section of concrete posed a hazard. For purposes of analyzing exposure and knowledge, the Court will assume the section of concrete constituted a hazard.</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p style="text-align:justify; "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p style="margin-top:5.267px; margin-bottom:0px; margin-left:52px; "><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-size:12pt; ">the standard is intended to prevent.”<span>
						</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">KS Energy Servs., Inc.</span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-size:12pt; ">, No. 06-1416, 2008 WL 2846151, at</span></p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-left:52px; ">* 4 (OSHRC, July 14, 2008) (internal citations omitted).</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.467px; ">Here, the Secretary has not shown actual exposure. The CSHO testified that although he saw<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>workers<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>in<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>trench<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>when<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>he<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>first<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>approached<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>site,<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>he<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>was<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>unsure<span style="letter-spacing:-.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>where<span style="letter-spacing:-.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>they<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>were<span style="letter-spacing:-.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>located within the trench. A flagpole had been placed next to the section of concrete, which indicated<span style="letter-spacing:-.069cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>that workers had been in the vicinity, although it is unclear whether workers had been in the trench or at the opening. Although Mr. Diaz’s testimony varied as to whether workers were in the storm box, on the pipe, or on the trench’s benching system, he consistently testified that workers were not present throughout the excavation. Thus, the Court must determine whether access to the hazard was reasonably predictable.</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.067px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.267px; ">The<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>record<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>demonstrates<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>that<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>there<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>was<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>a<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>distance<span style="letter-spacing:-.004cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>25<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>feet<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>between<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>storm<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>box,<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>where Mr. Diaz admitted employees were working, and the section of concrete. The excavation was in progress,<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>and<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>a<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>power<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>saw<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>and<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>flagpole<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>were<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>left<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>near<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>section<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>concrete.<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>It<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>is<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>foreseeable<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>that an employee would traverse the length of the trench during the excavation, whether inadvertently or intentionally, to perform work.<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">See Briones Utility Co.</span>, No. 10-1372, 2016 WL 7424575, at *2 (OSHRC, Dec. 14, 2016) (“We find it was reasonably predictable that the employee could have inadvertently<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>strayed<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>into<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>adjacent,<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>unprotected<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>area<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>trench.”).<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>It<span style="letter-spacing:-.002cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>is<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>also<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>foreseeable<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>that an employee could enter the zone of danger to retrieve the flagpole or the saw.<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">See Phoenix Roofing, Inc.</span>, No. 90-2148, 1995 WL 82313, at *3 (OSHRC, Feb. 24, 1995) (holding it was reasonably predictable that a worker would go into an unprotected area when retrieving materials located 12 feet away). And Mr. Diaz’s testimony that no worker did in fact enter the opposite end of the trench does not weigh against finding possible exposure.<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">See Williams Enters., Inc.</span>, No. 14748,<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>1979<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>WL<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>8408,<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>at<span style="letter-spacing:-.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>*3<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>(OSHRC,<span style="letter-spacing:-.028cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Jan.<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>16,<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>1979)<span style="letter-spacing:-.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>(“Such<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>after-the-fact<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>analysis<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>would<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>impede,</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p style="line-height:2; text-align:justify; "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:5.267px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; margin-left:52px; margin-right:32.667px; ">rather than further, the congressional goal of accident prevention embodied in the Act.”). Accordingly, assuming the section of concrete posed a hazard, the Secretary established exposure.</p>
			</div>
			<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_ListParagraph style_ListParagraph " style="text-align:left; margin-left:124px; text-indent:-.635cm; text-align:left; margin-left:124px; text-indent:-.635cm; ">
				<span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; letter-spacing:-.004cm; width: 99;padding-right:20px;">5.</span><span style="font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;">The Secretary Established Employer</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.018cm; text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;"><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;">Knowledge</span></p>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.133px; margin-bottom:0px; "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:6px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.2px; ">“Employer knowledge is established by a showing of employer awareness of the physical conditions constituting the violation.”<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Phoenix Roofing, Inc</span>., 1995 WL 82313, at *3. Here, Mr. Diaz testified that the concrete was discovered after digging began. This is supported by the CSHO’s inspection report, where he noted Mr. Diaz “discovered the concrete while digging that morning” and that Mr. Diaz did not know where the concrete had originated or where it ended. (Ex. C-2-2). This knowledge may be imputed to Texas Underground. As foreman, Mr. Diaz was charged with ensuring a safe worksite, and he was aware that the section of concrete had not<span style="letter-spacing:-.071cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>been removed.<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">See W.G. Yates & Sons Const. Co. Inc. v. Occupational Safety and Health Review Comm’n</span>, 459 F.3d 604, 607 (5th Cir. 2006) (noting “when a corporate employer entrusts to a supervisory employee its duty to assure employee compliance with safety standards, it is reasonable to charge the employer with the supervisor’s knowledge, actual or constructive”) (internal citations omitted)). Accordingly, the Secretary established<span style="letter-spacing:-.004cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>knowledge.</p>
			</div>
			<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_ListParagraph style_ListParagraph " style="text-align:left; margin-left:124px; text-indent:-.635cm; text-align:left; margin-top:.133px; margin-bottom:0px; text-align:justify; margin-left:124px; text-indent:-.635cm; margin-top:.133px; margin-bottom:0px; text-align:justify; ">
				<span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; letter-spacing:-.004cm; width: 99;padding-right:20px;">6.</span><span style="font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;">The Violation was Properly Characterized as</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:.002cm; text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;"><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;">Serious</span></p>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.133px; margin-bottom:0px; "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:6px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.2px; ">“[A] violation is serious if there is a substantial probability that death or serious physical harm could result.<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Conagra Flour Milling Co</span>., No. 88-2572, 1992 WL 215113, at *7 (OSHRC, Aug.<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>19,<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>1992).<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Texas<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Underground<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>argues<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>there<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>was<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>no<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>actual<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>injury<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>here<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>and<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>potential<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>injury is merely hypothetical. However, the occurrence of an accident need not be the substantially probable<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>result<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>violative<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>condition;<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>instead,<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Secretary<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>must<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>establish<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>that<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>a<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>serious<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>injury is the likely result if an accident does occur.<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Id.</span>;<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">see also E. Tex. Motor Freight, Inc. v. Occupational</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:.053cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Safety</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:.051cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">and</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:.051cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Health</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:.051cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Review</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:.053cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Comm’n</span>,<span style="letter-spacing:.051cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>671<span style="letter-spacing:.051cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>F.2d<span style="letter-spacing:.051cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>845,<span style="letter-spacing:.051cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>849<span style="letter-spacing:.051cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>(5th<span style="letter-spacing:.053cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Cir.<span style="letter-spacing:.053cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>1982)<span style="letter-spacing:.051cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>(holding</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p style="line-height:2; text-align:justify; "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:5.267px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; margin-right:38.467px; ">injuries<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>ranging<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>from<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>crushed<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>toes<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>to<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>death<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>supported<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>a<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>finding<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>a<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>serious<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>violation).<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Here,<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Texas Underground does not dispute the Secretary’s characterization, and the CSHO credibly testified that if the concrete section were to fall on a worker, it could cause fractures, bruises, contusions, and broken bones. Thus, assuming the Secretary had established the existence of a hazard, the violation would have been properly classified as serious.</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.4px; ">In<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>conclusion,<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Court<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>holds<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Secretary<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>did<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>not<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>meet<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>her<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>burden<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>to<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>show<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>existence of a hazard or that the standard was violated. Accordingly, Citation 1, Item 1, is<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>vacated.</p>
			</div>
			<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_Heading1 style_Heading1 " style="text-align:left; margin-left:124px; text-indent:-.635cm; text-align:left; margin-top:.067px; margin-bottom:0px; text-align:justify; margin-left:124px; text-indent:-.635cm; margin-top:.067px; margin-bottom:0px; text-align:justify; ">
				<span style="font-family:Times New Roman; font-weight:bold; letter-spacing:-.002cm; width: 99;padding-right:20px;">B.</span><span style="text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-weight:bold; text-decoration:underline ;">Citation 2, Item</span><span style="letter-spacing:.004cm; text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-weight:bold; text-decoration:underline ;"><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-weight:bold; text-decoration:underline ;">1</span></p>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.133px; margin-bottom:0px; "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:6px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.4px; ">Citation 2, Item 2 alleges a repeat-serious violation of 29 C.F.R. § 1926(a)(1), stating that “Each employee in an excavation was not protected from cave-ins by an adequate protective system designed in accordance with 29 C.F.R. § 1926.652(b) or (c).” The Secretary describes the repeat-serious violation as follows:</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="text-align:justify; margin-left:106.067px; margin-right:86.467px; ">On<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>or<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>about<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>October<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>6,<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>2020,<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>at<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>or<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>near<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>intersection<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Imperial<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Valley<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Dr.<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>and<span>
					</span>Richcrest<span><span></span>
					</span>Dr., where employees were exposed to a crushed-by hazard when working in an excavation without an adequate cave-in protection<span style="letter-spacing:-.004cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>system.</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.067px; margin-bottom:0px; "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="text-align:justify; margin-left:106.067px; margin-right:86.2px; ">The Texas Underground Utilities, Inc. was previously cited for a violation of this occupational safety and health standard 29 CFR 1926.652(a)(l), which was contained in OSHA inspection number1216629, citation number 1, item number 3 and was affirmed as a final order on June 27, 2017, with respect to a workplace located at the intersection of Conroe Medical Dr. at Loop 336 South, Conroe, TX 77304.</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-left:52px; ">Citation at 9.</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText "> </p>
			</div>
			<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_ListParagraph style_ListParagraph " style="text-align:left; margin-left:124px; text-indent:-.635cm; text-align:left; margin-left:143.2px; text-indent:-.635cm; ">
				<span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; letter-spacing:-.004cm; width: 99;padding-right:20px;">1.</span><span style="font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;">The Standard</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.005cm; text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;"><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;">Applies</span></p>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.2px; margin-bottom:0px; "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:6px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:32.667px; ">The parties dispute whether the standard applies to this trench. Texas Underground claims the Secretary cannot establish the trench exceeded 5 feet in depth, so the standard does not apply.</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p style="line-height:2; "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:5.267px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; margin-right:38.333px; ">Specifically, Texas Underground takes issue with the measurements taken by the CSHO, arguing they were inaccurate.</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.014cm; margin-right:38.467px; ">Section<span style="letter-spacing:-.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>1926.652(a)(1)<span style="letter-spacing:-.028cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>requires<span style="letter-spacing:-.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>that<span style="letter-spacing:-.028cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>each<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>employee<span style="letter-spacing:-.028cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>in<span style="letter-spacing:-.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>an<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>excavation<span style="letter-spacing:-.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>be<span style="letter-spacing:-.03cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>protected<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>from<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>cave- ins unless the excavation is made entirely of stable<span>
					</span>rock<span><span></span>
					</span>or the excavation is less than 5 feet in depth and examination of the ground by a competent person provides no indication of a potential cave-in. The parties agreed the trench was dug into Type B soil, but they disagreed whether the trench was 5 feet deep such that the standard applied.<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">See<span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Trumid</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span>Const. Co., Inc.</span>, No.86-1139, 1990 WL 139883, at *1 (OSHRC, Sept. 12, 1990) (examining whether the standard applied to a trench where depth was<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>disputed.).</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.067px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.014cm; margin-right:38.267px; ">The CSHO measured the depth of the trench in multiple places along its length. The west end was the deepest, measuring 7 feet deep, and the CSHO took a photograph of his measuring tool showing the depth as 7 feet. (Ex. C-11-11). Texas Underground believes this measurement<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>is impossible,<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>and<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>it<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>advances<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>a<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>theory<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>that<span style="letter-spacing:-.004cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>measuring<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>device<span style="letter-spacing:-.004cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>fell<span style="letter-spacing:-.004cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>into<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>a<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>hole<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>or<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>depression<span style="letter-spacing:.002cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>in<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the trench floor. However, Texas Underground presented no evidence that defeats the CSHO’s testimony or photographic evidence. Mr. Lugo went to the site the next day, but he could not measure the trench because it had already been backfilled. (Tr. 245). No other employees took measurements of the trench, and Mr. Diaz—who was present while the CSHO was taking measurements—did not object to the CSHO’s methodology. Based on the evidence in the record, the Court concludes that portions of the trench exceeded 5 feet such the standard<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>applies.</p>
			</div>
			<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_ListParagraph style_ListParagraph " style="text-align:left; margin-left:124px; text-indent:-.635cm; text-align:left; margin-top:.133px; margin-bottom:0px; text-align:justify; margin-left:143.2px; text-indent:-.635cm; margin-top:.133px; margin-bottom:0px; text-align:justify; ">
				<span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; letter-spacing:-.004cm; width: 99;padding-right:20px;">2.</span><span style="font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;">The Secretary Established that the Standard was</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.002cm; text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;"><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;">Violated</span></p>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.133px; margin-bottom:0px; "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:6px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.113cm; margin-right:38.2px; ">The Court next turns to whether the Secretary established that Texas Underground<span style="letter-spacing:-.044cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>violated the<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>standard.<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Texas<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Underground<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>concedes<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>it<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>used<span style="letter-spacing:-.002cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>a<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>benching<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>system<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>(Resp.<span style="letter-spacing:-.002cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Br.<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>13),<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>although<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the parties<span style="letter-spacing:.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>disagree<span style="letter-spacing:.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>about<span style="letter-spacing:.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>whether<span style="letter-spacing:.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>it<span style="letter-spacing:.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>was<span style="letter-spacing:.028cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>a<span style="letter-spacing:.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>single<span style="letter-spacing:.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>or<span style="letter-spacing:.03cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>multiple<span style="letter-spacing:.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>benching<span style="letter-spacing:.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>system.<span style="letter-spacing:.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>In<span style="letter-spacing:.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>any<span style="letter-spacing:.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>event,<span style="letter-spacing:.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Texas</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p style="line-height:2; text-align:justify; "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:5.267px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; margin-right:38.4px; ">Underground argues the CSHO’s measurements were approximations, thus rendering them unreliable. It also takes issue with the CSHO’s use of the ladder to measure the trench’s slope, arguing that the ladder was not placed to accurately reflect the angle of the bench. The Secretary argues that although the CSHO provided a range of measurements for the trench, none of the numbers in the range<span>
					</span>were in compliance with<span><span></span>
					</span>the regulation; therefore, Texas Underground’s grievances about lack of precision are irrelevant.</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.067px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.113cm; margin-right:38.2px; ">After reviewing the evidence presented by the parties, the Court accepts the measurements provided<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>by<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>CSHO.<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>The<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>CSHO<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>credibly<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>testified<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>about<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>his<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>methodology,<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>and<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>photographs support his testimony. Excavations are generally not level, so the CSHO’s method of noting dimensions within a range was reasonable. Moreover, Texas Underground did not offer evidence that would seriously call into question the CSHO’s measurements. Texas Underground did not independently measure the trench or provide alternative dimensions.<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">See L & M<span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Lignos</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span>Enters.</span>, No. 92-1746, 1995 WL 61525, at *2 (OSHRC, Feb. 14,1995) (noting that although employer challenged the compliance officer’s measurement of the scaffold, it did not provide contradictory evidence).</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.067px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.014cm; margin-right:38.333px; ">Next, the Court concludes that the trench was not in compliance with the standard. Section 1926.652 requires employers to design sloping or benching systems in trenches exceeding 5 feet in depth, and Appendix B applies to excavations made in Type B soil. Under Subpart P of Appendix<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>B,<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>walls<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>a<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>trench<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>exceeding<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>4<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>feet<span style="letter-spacing:-.004cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>in<span style="letter-spacing:-.002cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>depth<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>must<span style="letter-spacing:-.004cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>be<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>sloped<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>or<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>benched<span style="letter-spacing:-.002cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>at<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>a<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>maximum allowable<span style="letter-spacing:-.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>slope<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>1<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>to<span style="letter-spacing:-.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>1<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>(45<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>degrees).<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>This<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>slope<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>may<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>be<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>achieved<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>with<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>a<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>single<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>bench<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>or<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>a<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>multiple bench system, depending on the depth of the trench. Under both systems, the first bench wall cannot be more than 4 feet high. In a single bench system, the first shelf must equal the height of the<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>bench,<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>which<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>will<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>create<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>a<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>1:1<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>ratio.<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>In<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>a<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>multiple<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>bench<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>system,<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>first<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>shelf<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>wall<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>must<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>double</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p style="line-height:2; text-align:justify; "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:5.267px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; margin-right:38.467px; ">the height of the bench; every other shelf would have a height and width equal to the first shelf wall to create the 1:1 ratio. To comply with the standard, all sides of a trench must be properly sloped or benched.<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">See<span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Garney</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span>Construction, Inc</span>., 2003 WL 21693001, at *5 (OSHRC, July 18, 2003) (observing that to comply with the maximum allowable slope for Type B soil, “all</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; ">faces of the excavation must be sloped or benched 1:1 or 45 degrees”).</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.113cm; margin-right:38.133px; ">Here,<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>height<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>first<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>bench<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>wall<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>was<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>between<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>4<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>1⁄2<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>and<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>5<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>feet,<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>but<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>standard<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>requires the first bench wall to be 4 feet or less. The bench shelf width measured between 2 and 3 feet,<span style="letter-spacing:-.039cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>but the standard requires the width to be 4 feet (single bench) or 8 feet (multiple benches). No measurement taken by the CSHO would render this trench in compliance with the<span style="letter-spacing:-.056cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>regulation. (Tr. 183-84,<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>188);<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">see</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Lakeland</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Enters.</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">of</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Rhinelander,</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Inc.</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">v.</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Chao</span>,<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>402<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>F.3d<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>739,<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>747<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>(7th<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Cir.<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>2005) (holding the trench “fell short” of the standards requirements using either party’s purported measurements). The trench here was improperly sloped. Accordingly, the Court concludes that Texas Underground violated the<span style="letter-spacing:-.002cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>standard.</p>
			</div>
			<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_ListParagraph style_ListParagraph " style="text-align:left; margin-left:124px; text-indent:-.635cm; text-align:left; margin-top:.133px; margin-bottom:0px; text-align:justify; margin-left:143.2px; text-indent:-.635cm; margin-top:.133px; margin-bottom:0px; text-align:justify; ">
				<span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; letter-spacing:-.004cm; width: 99;padding-right:20px;">3.</span><span style="font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;">The Secretary Established</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.004cm; text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;"><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;">Exposure</span></p>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.133px; margin-bottom:0px; "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:6px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.4px; ">Texas Underground argues that the Secretary cannot prove its workers were exposed to a potential cave-in hazard and the fact that the CSHO did not direct Texas Underground to cease work demonstrated that workers would not be exposed to a hazard if work continued. Here, evidence in the record supports a finding that workers were exposed to a hazard. Work on the trench began around 7:30 A.M. The CSHO observed workers in the trench, and it is largely undisputed that workers were in the trench for at least 5 to 10 minutes before the CSHO arrived.</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p style="line-height:2; text-align:justify; "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:5.267px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:right; margin-left:28.867px; margin-right:38.467px; ">This means workers used the ladder, which was located at the deeper end of the trench near<span style="letter-spacing:-.074cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>7- foot<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>wall,<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>which<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>would<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>have<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>exposed<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>them<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>to<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>a<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>cave-in<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>hazard<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>while<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>entering<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>or<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>exiting<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>trench.</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.333px; ">Mr.<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Diaz’s<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>testimony<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>to<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>contrary<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>was<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>inconsistent.<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>He<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>initially<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>stated<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>that<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>workers<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>were on<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>top<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>pipe<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>in<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>trench,<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>but<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>then<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>later<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>said<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>they<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>were<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>in<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>storm<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>box—located<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>on<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>same end of the trench as the 7-foot wall—to clear some residual concrete in the storm box. On cross- examination, Mr. Diaz again changed his testimony and said that workers had been on the bench and not in the<span style="letter-spacing:-.002cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>trench.</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.067px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.4px; ">The Court cannot rely on Mr. Diaz’s testimony to shed light on where employees were in the trench before the CSHO arrived. However, there is sufficient evidence in the record, based on the<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>CSHO’s<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>observations<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>and<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>tools<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>located<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>in<span style="letter-spacing:-.004cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>trench,<span style="letter-spacing:-.004cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>that<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>employees<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>were<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>in<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>trench<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>on the west end near the storm box. Although workers were only in the trench for a short duration, this nevertheless constitutes exposure.<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">See Flint Eng’g & Const. Co</span>., No. 90-2873, 1992 WL 394727, at *4 (OSHRC, Dec. 21, 1992) (“even if a hazardous condition exists only briefly, or if employees are exposed to a hazardous condition only briefly, brief duration does not negate the violation<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>or<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>its<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>seriousness”);<span style="letter-spacing:-.004cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">see</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">also</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">H.</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">H.</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Hall</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Const.</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Co.</span>,<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>No.<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>76-4765,<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>1981<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>WL<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>18913,<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>at<span style="letter-spacing:-.004cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>*6 (OSHRC,<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Oct.<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>7,<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>1981)<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>(holding<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>five<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>to<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>ten<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>minutes<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>in<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>an<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>unsafe<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>trench<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>results<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>in<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>serious<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>violation and that the duration is not determinative of the seriousness of a violation but rather the penalty assessment)<span style="letter-spacing:-.03cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>(other<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>grounds<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>superseded<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>by<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>statute).<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Moreover,<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>standing<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>on<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>a<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>pipe<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>or<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>a<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>storm<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>box<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>in the trench does not negate exposure.<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">See Ford Dev. Corp.</span>, No. 90-1505, 1992 WL 381669, at * 9 (OSHRC Dec. 3, 1992),<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">aff’d</span>, 16 F.3d 1219 (6th Cir. 1994) (rejecting argument that employees standing on pipe in excavation deeper than five feet established the exception <span style="letter-spacing:.055cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.133px; margin-bottom:0px; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; ">§<span style="letter-spacing:-.002cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>1926.652(a)(1)(ii),<span style="letter-spacing:.046cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>observing<span style="letter-spacing:.048cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>that<span style="letter-spacing:.048cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>“the<span style="letter-spacing:.048cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>standard<span style="letter-spacing:.051cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>speaks<span style="letter-spacing:.048cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:.046cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:.048cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>depth<span style="letter-spacing:.049cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:.051cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:.048cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>trench,<span style="letter-spacing:.048cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>not<span style="letter-spacing:.049cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:.046cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p style="text-align:justify; "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:5.267px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; margin-left:52px; margin-right:34.467px; ">position of the employees in the trench”). Workers were in the trench where the depth was greater than 5 feet without adequate protection in place. The Secretary has established exposure.</p>
			</div>
			<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_ListParagraph style_ListParagraph " style="text-align:left; margin-left:124px; text-indent:-.635cm; text-align:left; margin-left:143.2px; text-indent:-.635cm; ">
				<span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; letter-spacing:-.004cm; width: 99;padding-right:20px;">4.</span><span style="font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;">The Secretary Established</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.004cm; text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;"><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;">Knowledge</span></p>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.133px; margin-bottom:0px; "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:6px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.333px; ">As noted previously, “[e]mployer<span><span></span>
					</span>knowledge is established by a showing of employer awareness of the physical conditions constituting the violation.”<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Phoenix Roofing, Inc</span>., 1995 WL 82313, at *3. “To prove knowledge, the Secretary must show that the employer either actually knew of the noncomplying condition, or constructively knew of it—that is, the employer could have known with the exercise of reasonable diligence.”<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Par Elec. Contractors, Inc.</span>, No.<span style="letter-spacing:-.035cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>99-1520, 2004 WL 334488, at *3 (OSHRC, Feb. 19, 2004). “The knowledge of a supervisory employee may be imputed to his or her employer.”<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Id.</span></p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.067px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.467px; ">Here, Mr. Diaz was aware the trench was dug into Type B soil and required sloping or benching. In fact, he testified he dug the benching system in this trench for employee safety. Mr. Diaz could have known, with the exercise of reasonable diligence, that portions of the trench’s walls exceeded 5 feet and that the benching system did not meet the standard’s requirements. Although the trenching work was in its early stages, Texas Underground was responsible for ensuring safety throughout the duration of the work. Texas Underground does not argue lack of knowledge or that there was any employee misconduct such that it did not have constructive knowledge. Accordingly, the Secretary established knowledge.</p>
			</div>
			<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_ListParagraph style_ListParagraph " style="text-align:left; margin-left:124px; text-indent:-.635cm; text-align:left; margin-top:.067px; margin-bottom:0px; text-align:justify; margin-left:143.2px; text-indent:-.635cm; margin-top:.067px; margin-bottom:0px; text-align:justify; ">
				<span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; letter-spacing:-.004cm; width: 99;padding-right:20px;">5.</span><span style="font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;">The Violation was Properly Characterized as</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:.002cm; text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;"><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;">Serious</span></p>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.2px; margin-bottom:0px; "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:6px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.267px; ">Texas<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Underground<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>asks<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Court<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>to<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>adjust<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>classification<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>this<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Citation<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>to<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>other-than- serious. In support, it argues the CSHO did not advise anyone on site that there was a violation and did not require the company to make any changes to the excavation after the inspection concluded.</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p style="line-height:2; text-align:justify; "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:5.267px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.2px; ">As noted previously, “a violation is serious if there is a substantial probability that death or serious physical harm could result.”<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Conagra Flour Milling Co</span>., 1992 WL 215113, at *7. Trench<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>cave-ins<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>pose<span style="letter-spacing:-.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>a<span style="letter-spacing:-.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>substantial<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>probability<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>death<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>or<span style="letter-spacing:-.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>physical<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>harm,<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>and<span style="letter-spacing:-.028cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Texas<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Underground’s failure to comply with the standard posed a cave-in hazard that could have resulted in serious physical injury or death. 29 C.F.R. § 1926.650(b) (defining cave in to mean “separation of a<span style="letter-spacing:-.051cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>mass of<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>rock<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>or<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>soil<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>material<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>.<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>.<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>.<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>either<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>by<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>falling<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>or<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>sliding,<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>in<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>sufficient<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>quantity<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>so<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>that<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>it<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>could<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>entrap, bury, or otherwise injure and immobilize a person”). The Court concludes the violation was appropriately characterized as serious.<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">See Mosser Const., Inc.</span>, No. 08-0631, 2010 WL 711322, at<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>*3<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>(O.S.H.R.C,<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Feb.<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>23,<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>2010)<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>(trench<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>in<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Type<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>B<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>soil<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>measuring<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>almost<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>6<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>1⁄2<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>feet<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>deep<span style="letter-spacing:-.002cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>presented cave-in hazard that could have resulted in physical death or injury and was properly<span style="letter-spacing:-.072cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>characterized as<span style="letter-spacing:-.002cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>serious).</p>
			</div>
			<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_ListParagraph style_ListParagraph " style="text-align:left; margin-left:124px; text-indent:-.635cm; text-align:left; margin-top:.067px; margin-bottom:0px; text-align:justify; margin-left:143.2px; text-indent:-.635cm; margin-top:.067px; margin-bottom:0px; text-align:justify; ">
				<span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; letter-spacing:-.004cm; width: 99;padding-right:20px;">6.</span><span style="font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;">The Violation was Properly Characterized as</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:.002cm; text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;"><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; text-decoration:underline ;">Repeat</span></p>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.133px; margin-bottom:0px; "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:6px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.267px; ">Under Commission precedent, a violation is considered repeat “if, at the time of the alleged . . . violation, there was a Commission final order against the same employer for a substantially<span style="letter-spacing:-.03cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>similar<span style="letter-spacing:-.032cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>violation.”<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">UHS</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.03cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">of</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.028cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Westwood</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.028cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Pembroke,</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Inc.,</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">UHS</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.028cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">of</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Del.,</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.028cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Inc</span>.,<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>No.<span style="letter-spacing:-.03cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>17-0737, 2022 WL 774272, at *12 (OSHRC, Mar. 3, 2022) (internal citations omitted),<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">aff’d,<span>
						</span></span>No.<span style="letter-spacing:-.037cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>22-1845, 2023 WL 3243988 (3d Cir. May 4, 2023). “The principle [sic] factor in determining whether a violation is repeated is whether the two violations resulted in substantially similar hazards.”<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Lake Erie Const. Co., Inc</span>., No. 02-0520, 2005 WL 2902315, at *4 (OSHRC, Sept. 25, 2005) (internal citations omitted);<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">cf. Bunge Corp. v. Sec’y of Labor</span>, 638 F.2d 831, 838 (5th Cir. 1981) (holding that where the condition is the violative element, the Secretary’s burden must include substantial similarity of the conditions between the<span style="letter-spacing:-.002cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>citations).</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p style="line-height:2; text-align:justify; "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:5.267px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.2px; ">Here,<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Secretary<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>properly<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>characterized<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>violation<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>as<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>repeat.<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Texas<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Underground<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>was cited<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>for<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>violating<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>same<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>standard<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>in<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>2017,<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>and<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>that<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>prior<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>citation<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>involved<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>a<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>cave-in<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>hazard<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>due to improper sloping of a trench dug in Type B soil. Although the prior violation was abated by implementing<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>use<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>a<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>trench<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>box,<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>“[the]<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>similarity<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>abatement<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>is<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>not<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>criterion<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>for<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>finding a repeat violation.”<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Lake Erie</span>, 2005 WL 2902315, at<span style="letter-spacing:-.002cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>*4.</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="text-align:justify; margin-left:100px; ">In sum, the Court concludes the Secretary met her burden with respect to Citation 2,<span style="letter-spacing:.092cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Item</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.067px; margin-bottom:0px; margin-left:52px; ">1. The Citation is affirmed.</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText "> </p>
			</div>
			<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_Heading1 style_Heading1 " style="text-align:left; margin-left:124px; text-indent:-.635cm; text-align:left; margin-left:124px; text-indent:-.635cm; ">
				<span style="font-family:Times New Roman; font-weight:bold; letter-spacing:-.002cm; width: 99;padding-right:20px;">C.</span><span style="text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-weight:bold; text-decoration:underline ;">Citation 3, Item</span><span style="letter-spacing:.002cm; text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-weight:bold; text-decoration:underline ;"><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-weight:bold; text-decoration:underline ;">1</span></p>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.133px; margin-bottom:0px; "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:6px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.533px; ">Citation 3 Item 1 alleges an other-than-serious violation of 29 C.F.R. § 1926.21(b)(2), which states:</p>
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				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="text-align:justify; margin-left:90.4px; margin-right:86.8px; ">The employer shall instruct each employee in the recognition and avoidance of unsafe conditions and the regulations applicable to his work environment to control or eliminate any hazards or other exposure to illness or injury.</p>
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				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText "> </p>
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				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-left:52px; ">The Secretary describes the violation as follows:</p>
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				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.067px; margin-bottom:0px; "> </p>
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				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="text-align:justify; margin-left:90.4px; margin-right:86.333px; ">On or about October 6, 2020, at or near the intersection of Imperial Valley Dr. and<span>
					</span>Richcrest<span><span></span>
					</span>Dr., where employees performed work in a trench excavation without being trained by the employer in the recognition and avoidance of unsafe<span style="letter-spacing:-.049cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>conditions and the regulations applicable to his/her environment to control or eliminate any hazards.</p>
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				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText "> </p>
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				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-left:100px; text-indent:-1.27cm; ">Citation<span style="letter-spacing:.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>at<span style="letter-spacing:.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>10.<span style="letter-spacing:.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>The<span style="letter-spacing:.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>central<span style="letter-spacing:.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>issue<span style="letter-spacing:.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>here<span style="letter-spacing:.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>is<span style="letter-spacing:.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>whether<span style="letter-spacing:.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Secretary<span style="letter-spacing:.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>proved<span style="letter-spacing:.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>a<span style="letter-spacing:.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>violation<span style="letter-spacing:.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>standard.</p>
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				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.2px; ">To prove a violation of § 1926.21(b)(2), the Secretary must show that the cited employer failed to instruct employees on “(1) how to recognize and avoid the unsafe conditions which they may encounter on the job, and (2) the regulations applicable to those hazardous conditions.”<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Superior Custom Cabinet Co</span>., No. 94-200, 1997 WL 603024, at *2 (OSHRC, Sept. 27, 1997) (citing § 1926.21(b)(2)). “This command is so general and potentially subjective that the Commission<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>and<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>courts<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>have<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>seen<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>fit<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>to<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>read<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>into<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>it<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>a<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>reasonableness<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>standard.”<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">El</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Paso</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Crane</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">and</span></p>
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				<p style="line-height:2; text-align:justify; "> </p>
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				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:5.267px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; margin-right:38.4px; "><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Rigging</span><span style="font-style:italic; letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Co</span>.,<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>No.<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>90-1106,<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>1993<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>WL<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>393508,<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>at<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>*7<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>(OSHRC,<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Sept.<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>30,<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>1993).<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>“That<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>is,<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>to<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>establish noncompliance, the Secretary must establish that the cited employer failed to provide the instructions<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>that<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>a<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>reasonably<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>prudent<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>employer<span style="letter-spacing:-.002cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>would<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>have<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>given<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>in<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>same<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>circumstances.”<span style="letter-spacing:-.002cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Id</span>. And, “[a]n employer’s instructions and training must be specific enough to advise employees of the<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>hazards<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>associated<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>with<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>their<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>work<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>and<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>ways<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>to<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>avoid<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>them,<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>and<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>modeled<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>on<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>applicable OSHA requirements.”<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">O’Brien Concrete Pumping, Inc</span>., No. 98-0471, 2000 WL 235285, at *2 (OSHRC, Feb. 16, 2000) (internal citation<span style="letter-spacing:.002cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>omitted).</p>
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			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.067px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.333px; ">Here, there is minimal evidence in the record regarding training. Mr. Castillo told the CSHO he had been employed with the company for a week and received no training. However, the<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Secretary<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>did<span style="letter-spacing:-.004cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>not<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>call<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Mr.<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Castillo<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>as<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>a<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>witness<span style="letter-spacing:-.002cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>at<span style="letter-spacing:-.004cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>trial,<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>and<span style="letter-spacing:-.002cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the record<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>shows<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>his<span style="letter-spacing:-.004cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>interview<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>was conducted with the assistance of another worker, who was translating. On this record, the Court cannot conclude whether the statements made by Mr. Castillo were<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>reliable.</p>
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			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.267px; ">Mr. Diaz testified at trial, and he was assisted by an interpreter. However, his testimony was inconsistent. He explained he had 40 years of experience in the industry and underwent training with a previous employer. He testified that he was “in training” with Texas Underground (Tr. 319) but then admitted Texas Underground never provided him with any training (Tr. 322). Thus, it is unclear whether Mr. Diaz received training or was in training at the time of the inspection. Notably, the Secretary did not make any inquiries about other forms of training Mr. Diaz may have received, like on-the-job training or printed materials. Similarly, the Secretary did not at trial ask Mr. Vera, who owned the company, any questions related to training Texas Underground provided to its employees. Although the Secretary admitted into the record a certificate reflecting that Jose Vera completed training on GHS-HazCom<span><span></span>
					</span>(Ex. C-10-19),<span style="letter-spacing:.099cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>this</p>
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			<div>
				<p style="line-height:2; text-align:justify; "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:5.6px; margin-bottom:0px; margin-left:52px; ">evidence is irrelevant as to whether Mr. Diaz or Mr. Castillo underwent training.<span style="font-size:8pt; position:relative; top:-4.5pt;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-size:8pt; ">4</span></p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.333px; ">Although<span style="letter-spacing:-.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Secretary<span style="letter-spacing:-.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>is<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>not<span style="letter-spacing:-.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>required<span style="letter-spacing:-.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>to<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>prove<span style="letter-spacing:-.032cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>a<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>negative,<span style="letter-spacing:-.028cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>she<span style="letter-spacing:-.028cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>carries<span style="letter-spacing:-.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.028cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>burden<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.03cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>proving a violation by a preponderance of the evidence. Based on this record, the Court cannot determine by a preponderance of the evidence whether the training was adequate under the standard.<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">See Caterpillar Tractor Co</span>., No. 80-4061, 1986 WL 53446, at *3 (OSHRC, Apr. 16, 1986) (“Normally, where the record in a case lacks sufficient evidence on a disputed issue, we would resolve<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>that<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>issue<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>against<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>party<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>having<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>burden<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>proof.”).<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Therefore,<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>because<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Secretary did not carry her burden, she failed to establish a violation by the preponderance of the<span style="letter-spacing:-.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>evidence.</p>
			</div>
			<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_Heading1 style_Heading1 " style="text-align:left; margin-left:124px; text-indent:-.635cm; text-align:left; margin-top:.067px; margin-bottom:0px; text-align:justify; margin-left:124px; text-indent:-.635cm; margin-top:.067px; margin-bottom:0px; text-align:justify; ">
				<span style="font-family:Times New Roman; font-weight:bold; letter-spacing:-.002cm; width: 99;padding-right:20px;">D.</span><span style="text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-weight:bold; text-decoration:underline ;">Penalty</span></p>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.133px; margin-bottom:0px; "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:6px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.4px; ">“Section 17(j) of the Act, 29 U.S.C. § 666(j), requires that in assessing penalties, the Commission must give “due consideration” to four criteria: the size of the employer’s business, gravity of the violation, good faith, and prior history of violations.”<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">J. A. Jones Const. Co</span>., No. 87-2059, 1993 WL 61950, at *15 (OSHRC, Feb. 19, 1993). “These factors are not necessarily accorded<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>equal<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>weight;<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>generally<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>speaking,<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>gravity<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>a<span style="letter-spacing:-.004cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>violation<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>is<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>primary<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>element<span style="letter-spacing:-.004cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>in<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the penalty assessment.”<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Id.<span>
						</span></span>(citations omitted). “The gravity of a particular violation, moreover, depends<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>upon<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>such<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>matters<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>as<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>number<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>employees<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>exposed,<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>duration<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>exposure,<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the precautions taken against injury, and the likelihood that any injury would result.”<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Id</span>. (citation omitted). The Court is vacating Citation 1, Item 1 and Citation 3, Item 3, so it will only consider the assessment of the penalty for Citation 2, Item<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>1.</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.067px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.333px; ">The<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>CSHO<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>assessed<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>a<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>penalty<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>$20,781.00<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>for<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>this<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>repeat-serious<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>citation.<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>(Ex.<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>C2-6).<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>He gave<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Texas<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Underground<span style="letter-spacing:-.004cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>a<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>size<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>reduction<span style="letter-spacing:.002cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>and<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>noted<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>gravity<span style="letter-spacing:-.004cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>violation<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>as<span style="letter-spacing:-.002cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>“high”<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>because injuries associated with the cave-in hazard are those that can cause permanent disability or<span style="letter-spacing:.039cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>death.</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.4px; margin-bottom:0px; "><div><img style="" alt="Freeform 2" height="NaN" width="193" align="left" xmlns="http://schemas.openxmlformats.org/package/2006/relationships"/></div> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:2.533px; margin-bottom:0px; margin-left:52px; margin-right:34.467px; "><span style="font-size:8pt; position:relative; top:-4.5pt;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-size:8pt; ">4<span>
						</span></span>The Court notes that only page 19 of Exhibit C-10 was admitted into evidence. (Tr. 193). The rest was not admitted and will not be considered by the Court.</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:5.267px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; margin-right:38.533px; ">Because<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>violation<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>was<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>characterized<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>as<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>repeat,<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>CSHO<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>did<span style="letter-spacing:-.018cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>not<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>give<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>company<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>a<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>reduction for good faith and instead assessed a 10% increase. He noted, however, that the duration and frequency of exposure was limited: 12 times for 10 minutes on one<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>day.</p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.467px; ">Texas<span style="letter-spacing:-.028cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Underground<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>asks<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>that<span style="letter-spacing:-.028cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Court<span style="letter-spacing:-.028cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>reduce<span style="letter-spacing:-.03cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>penalty<span style="letter-spacing:-.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>by<span style="letter-spacing:-.028cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>75%<span style="letter-spacing:-.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>and,<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>as<span style="letter-spacing:-.028cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>noted<span style="letter-spacing:-.026cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>previously, change the citation to other-than-serious. However, the Court finds the evidence in the record sufficient to support the penalty as assessed. Although the duration of exposure was limited, the hazard<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>to<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>which<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>workers<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>were<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>exposed<span style="letter-spacing:-.019cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>carries<span style="letter-spacing:-.016cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>significant<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>weight<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>because<span style="letter-spacing:-.025cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>it<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>could<span style="letter-spacing:-.023cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>have<span style="letter-spacing:-.021cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>resulted in serious injury or death.<span>
					</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">See<span>
						</span></span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; ">Calang</span><span style="font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-style:italic; "><span><span></span>
						</span>Corp.</span>, No. 85-319, 1990 WL 140086, at *6 (OSHRC, Sept.<span style="letter-spacing:-.002cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>12,<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>1990)<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>(“The<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>likely<span style="letter-spacing:-.004cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>consequences<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.002cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>a<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>cave-in<span style="letter-spacing:-.004cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>would<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>have<span style="letter-spacing:-.004cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>been<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>death<span style="letter-spacing:-.004cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>or<span style="letter-spacing:-.009cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>serious<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>physical harm for three or four employees. Trench cave-ins, which are frequently caused by failure to comply<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>with<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>Secretary’s<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>trenching<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>standards,<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>have<span style="letter-spacing:-.011cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>been<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>for<span style="letter-spacing:-.014cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>many<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>years<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>one<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>of<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>the<span style="letter-spacing:-.012cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>most<span style="letter-spacing:-.007cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>severe problems in occupational safety.”). And it is undisputed this is a repeat violation in which Texas Underground exposed its workers to a similar hazard. Based on the evidence in the record, the Court affirms the penalty assessment for Citation 2, Item<span style="letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
						</span></span>1.</p>
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			<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_Heading1 style_Heading1 " style="text-align:center; outline-width:1; " xmlns:text="urn:oasis:names:tc:opendocument:xmlns:text:1.0" text:is-list-header="true"><span style="text-decoration:underline ;font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-weight:bold; text-decoration:underline ;">ORDER</span></p>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.133px; margin-bottom:0px; "> </p>
			</div>
			<div>
				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:6px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:2; text-align:justify; margin-left:52px; text-indent:1.268cm; margin-right:38.533px; ">The foregoing Decision constitutes the Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law in accordance with Rule 52(a) of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure. Based upon the foregoing Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law, it is ORDERED that:</p>
			</div>
			<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_ListParagraph style_ListParagraph " style="text-align:left; margin-left:100px; text-indent:-.635cm; text-align:left; text-align:justify; margin-left:100px; text-indent:-.635cm; text-align:justify; ">
				<span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; letter-spacing:-.007cm; width: 99;padding-right:20px;">1.</span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">Citation 1, Item 1, alleging a serious violation of 29 C.F.R. § 1926.651(a) is</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.005cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">VACATED.</span></p>
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				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.067px; margin-bottom:0px; "> </p>
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			<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_ListParagraph style_ListParagraph " style="text-align:left; margin-left:100px; text-indent:-.635cm; text-align:left; line-height:2; margin-left:100px; text-indent:-.635cm; margin-right:38.6px; line-height:2; ">
				<span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; letter-spacing:-.007cm; width: 99;padding-right:20px;">2.</span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">Citation 2, Item 1, alleging a repeat-serious violation of 29 C.F.R. § 1926.652(a) is AFFIRMED, and a penalty of $20,781 is</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.002cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">ASSESSED.</span></p>
			<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_ListParagraph style_ListParagraph " style="text-align:left; margin-left:100px; text-indent:-.635cm; text-align:left; line-height:2; margin-left:100px; text-indent:-.635cm; margin-right:38.667px; line-height:2; ">
				<span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; letter-spacing:-.007cm; width: 99;padding-right:20px;">3.</span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">Citation 3, Item 1, alleging an other-than-serious violation of 29 C.F.R. § 1926.21(b)(2)</span><span style="font-size:12pt; letter-spacing:-.034cm; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; "><span><span></span>
					</span></span><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">is VACATED.</span></p>
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				<p style="line-height:2; "> </p>
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				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.667px; margin-bottom:0px; "> </p>
			</div>
			<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_Heading1 style_Heading1 " style="text-align:left; outline-width:1; " xmlns:text="urn:oasis:names:tc:opendocument:xmlns:text:1.0" text:is-list-header="true"><span style="font-weight:normal; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; font-weight:bold; font-weight:normal; ">SO ORDERED.</span></p>
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				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText "> </p>
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				<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_BodyText style_BodyText " style="margin-top:.267px; margin-bottom:0px; "> </p>
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				<p style="margin-top:5.933px; margin-bottom:0px; margin-left:340.067px; "><span style="font-size:20pt; font-family:Monotype Corsiva; font-style:italic; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Monotype Corsiva; font-size:20pt; font-style:italic; ">/</span><span style="font-size:20pt; font-family:Monotype Corsiva; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Monotype Corsiva; font-size:20pt; ">s/ Christopher D. Helms</span></p>
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			<table style="border-collapse:collapse; width:auto; align:left; margin-left:1.226cm; margin-bottom:0cm">
				<tr style="margin:0;border:0;padding:0;visibility:hidden;">
					<th style="width:67.667px;"/>
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							<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_TableParagraph style_TableParagraph " style="line-height:.485cm; margin-left:13.333px; "><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">Dated:</span></p>
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					<td style="vertical-align:top;padding-left:0cm; padding-right:0cm; width:5.392cm;">
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							<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_TableParagraph style_TableParagraph " style="line-height:.452cm; margin-left:0cm; "><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">August 4, 2023</span></p>
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							<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_TableParagraph style_TableParagraph " style="line-height:.452cm; margin-left:0cm; "><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">Denver, Colorado</span></p>
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					<td style="vertical-align:top;padding-left:0cm; padding-right:0cm; border-top:solid .018cm #000000; width:10.319cm;">
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							<p class="style_Normal style_Normal style_TableParagraph style_TableParagraph " style="margin-top:.133px; margin-bottom:0px; line-height:.487cm; margin-left:7px; margin-right:240.733px; "><span style="font-size:12pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:11pt; font-family:Times New Roman; font-size:12pt; ">Christopher D. Helms Judge, OSHRC</span></p>
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