Competent Person
Employers should inspect trenches daily, before each shift, and as conditions change by a competent person before worker entry to ensure elimination of excavation hazards.
An Oregon OSHA compliance officer stopped by an excavation where two workers were partially buried. They were unable to move until co-workers (also in danger) dug them out. The question is: was there a competent person for this worksite?
The designated competent person should have and be able to demonstrate the following:
- Training, experience, and knowledge of:
- soil analysis
- use of protective systems
- requirements of 29 CFR Part 1926 Subpart P
- Ability to detect:
- conditions that could result in cave-ins
- failures in protective systems
- hazardous atmospheres; and
- other hazards including those associated with confined spaces
- Authority to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate existing and predictable hazards and to stop work when required.
Cave-ins pose the greatest risk and are much more likely than other excavation-related accidents to result in worker fatalities. Other potential hazards include falls, falling loads, hazardous atmospheres, and incidents involving mobile equipment. One cubic yard of soil can weigh as much as a car.
An unprotected trench is an early grave.
Do not enter an unprotected trench.
Do not enter an unprotected trench.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
5-2. Who must an employer designate to inspect trenches?
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