Worker Rescued After 3 Hours Stuck in Trench Collapse in Indiana (Video)

A worker buried up to his armpits in a trench collapse in Indianapolis was saved after a nearly 3-hour rescue operation.

The arduous, highly technical rescue of the 23-year-old man was captured on video released by the Indianapolis Fire Department, a rare look at what it takes to save someone from a cave-in. (Video of the rescue can be seen at the end of this article.)

The incident occurred September 25 when the worker became trapped after a void space collapsed underneath him as workers were removing a shoring panel to move to the next location.

Dirt surrounded him up to his armpits, and only his arms, shoulders and head were visible.

Indianapolis Fire DepartmentCo-workers called 911 within minutes. IFD was dispatched at 10:52 a.m. and learned the man had been trapped for about 10 minutes when they arrived.

Firefighters talked with the man, who was alert and responsive, while they administered medical care. The IFD Collapse Rescue Team arrived at 11 a.m.

The first task was to stabilize the trench to prevent further collapse, as well as make the area safe for rescuers.

Indianapolis Fire DepartmentThe worker was stuck in dirt composed of sand, rock and heavy slate, which made the man’s removal more difficult. IFD got help from the man’s co-workers as well as a company vac truck to safely remove dirt from around his body. The trapped worker also helped remove the dirt around him as he was able.

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After 2 hours and 47 minutes, the worker was able to climb out of the excavation by ladder and with assistance from firefighters. Though a little unsteady, he thanked the rescuers and hugged one of the firefighters. He was soon loaded onto a stretcher and taken to a nearby hospital, where he was later released after being checked for injuries.

Indianapolis Fire DepartmentThe U.S. Occupational Safety & Health Administration has opened an investigation of Carmel-based Gradex Inc. regarding the collapse.

Trench rescues are uncommon, as such collapses often end in death, especially when the worker is completely buried. A cave-in can occur in a flash without warning, sending tons of dirt onto workers below, often leaving just a few minutes for rescue.

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The rescues are not just about digging a worker out. It involves complex shoring and stabilization to prevent further collapse. Secondary collapses on workers and responders trying to help a victim can lead to death. Also, trying to dig out a victim with an excavator or other heavy equipment can create life-threatening struck-by hazards.

For that reason, OSHA and safety experts urge contractors to use trench boxes before sending workers into trenches and excavations.

Video of Rescue Released

The video below was released by the IFD of the worker's rescue: