Calgary,
08
June
2023
|
18:44
America/Denver

Calgary Fire's Technical Rescue Team Responds to Devastating Trench/Confined Space Accident in Charleswood

At approximately 10:45 on Thursday morning, June 8, Calgary fire crews including the technical rescue team were called to the Charleswood neighbourhood for reports of a trench collapse.  A man in his late twenties who  works for a private plumbing company, had gone down the ladder into a hole (which was dug the day before) when a large amount of earth collapsed  on top of him from the steep slope above.  Firefighters used tools to remove the sandy soil and parts of the cinder block retaining wall however it became evident that heavy equipment was needed for removal of the surrounding dirt to access the trapped man.

A track hoe and several dump trucks were brought to the scene to start excavating the area.  Fire crews worked with  Water Services personnel and ATCO to ensure the excavation was done as safely as possible. Occupational Health and Safety Officers from the province came to the scene to start their investigation.  CPS Officers were also on scene to do their own investigation.  

As of 6:30 p.m., crews were still excavating for safe access to the man.  This incident is currently ongoing.

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