Construction workers rescued after trench collapse in Gordon’s Bay

On Tuesday 17 September, a trench collapsed while a City of Cape Town contractor was installing a rising sewer main along Broadway Boulevard in Gordon’s Bay, trapping one worker and injuring others.

They were all safely rescued, with no serious injuries reported, and taken to a nearby hospital for medical assessment.

According to Mayoral Committee member for Water and Sanitation Zahid Badroodien safety measures, including stepping and battering of the trench, were in place before the incident occurred, as per precautions.

“Further safety measures will be implemented if necessary,” he said, “and work will resume only after all protocols are reassessed and approved. The City remains committed to ensuring the highest safety standards on all sites.”

The trench collapsed while the City’s contractor was installing a rising sewer main along Broadway Boulevard in Gordon’s Bay, trapping one worker and injuring others.

The rescue operation was swift and coordinated between various first responders.

Two workers who sustained minor injuries were treated on site by paramedics.

Emergency services pull a man out of the trench after being trapped under the rubble.

Paramedics stabilise the patient before transporting him to hospital for further assessments.

The City’s Water and Sanitation Directorate is conducting an investigation to determine the cause and review safety precautions.