US Department of Labor cites Florida pipeline installation contractor for willfully exposing workers to safety hazards after March fatality

ORLANDO, FL - The U.S. Department of Labor has cited an Orlando-based pipeline installation contractor for willfully exposing employees to safety hazards after an incident claimed the life of a worker at a New Smyrna Beach worksite in March 2026.

The department's Occupational Safety and Health Administration found that on March 17, 2026, T & T Pipeline Co. Inc. employees were replacing a drill bit on a horizontal drilling machine when the pipe stem began to rotate and fatally struck the employee.

OSHA cited the employer with a willful violation for exposing employees to struck-by hazards when working on a horizontal directional drilling machine and proposed $165,514 in penalties.

The company has 15 business days from receipt of their citations and penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA, or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.

Visit OSHA's website for information on developing a workplace safety and health program. Employers can also contact the agency for information about OSHA's compliance assistance resources and for free help on complying with OSHA standards.