802 Trench and Excavation Safety

Written Policies

Many companies have established a written policy that outlines specific safe trenching practices in detail. An effective policy should ensure adequate support for the trench is installed and that frequent inspections of the excavation site are conducted to detect any change in the soil conditions.

Field and office personnel should become familiar with the company policies and guidelines outlined in the company safety program. The program may be put into writing to communicate the company's position regarding jobsite safety. An example of a company safety and health program in action is a written policy that ensures all employees in all excavations will be protected from cave-ins. When this type of policy is enforced, all employees understand their responsibilities and that helps to avoid unsafe practices.

Sound policies can be grouped into three major categories. Write policies to:

• Prepare a safe trench. Provide safe entry and exit before starting work. Keep materials at least 2 feet away from the edge.
• Protect workers from a cave-in by using protective systems. Sloping or benching trench walls, shoring the trench walls with supports, or shielding trench walls with trench boxes.
• Inspect the trench for hazards. Look for standing water and other environmental hazards. Never enter a trench unless it has been inspected and approved by the competent person.

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