A construction contractor based in Maryland is under scrutiny following the death of a 47-year-old diver during an underwater dive test at the Manns Harbor Bridge on Croatan Sound in June 2024. The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) conducted an investigation, revealing that Coastal Gunite Construction Co. failed to implement necessary safety measures.
The incident occurred when a four-member dive team from Coastal Gunite was conducting an underwater test on the worker's first day. Shortly after descending to about 19 feet underwater, the diver became unresponsive. Despite efforts by team members who performed CPR while waiting for emergency services, the diver could not be revived.
OSHA investigators identified several safety lapses at the site, including a failure to assess workers' fitness for diving and ensure first aid supplies and a manual resuscitator were available. Additionally, the company did not properly position an air intake to prevent contamination and neglected regular air purity tests on compressor systems and annual testing of air hose pressure.
"Ensuring employees are physically fit for commercial diving is a fundamental part of workplace safety," stated OSHA Area Office Director Kim Morton in Raleigh, North Carolina. "Employers have a duty to protect their workers by implementing strict safety protocols and thorough pre-employment evaluations, particularly in high-risk industries like commercial diving. This tragic incident could have been prevented."
Coastal Gunite Construction has been cited for four serious violations with proposed penalties totaling $40,329, which is the maximum OSHA can legally recommend. The company has 15 business days from receipt of its citations to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA’s area director, or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.
Operating out of Cambridge, Maryland since 1983, Coastal Gunite Construction Co. specializes in structural shotcrete services across various sectors including commercial and industrial clients. The company employs divers for marine operations involving infrastructure construction, maintenance, and repair.
For more information on developing workplace safety programs or compliance assistance resources provided by OSHA, employers are encouraged to visit OSHA’s website or contact them directly.
