U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data show that 271 workers died in trenching or excavation cave-ins from 2000 through 2006. OSHA believes that the rate of deaths and serious injuries resulting from trench/excavation accidents (mostly cave-ins) can be significantly affected only by a concentration of compliance resources within the area of trenching and excavation operations. OSHA and NIOSH recommend engineering controls, protective equipment, and safe work practices to minimize hazards for workers.

Within this course, the learner will display the ability to recognize the definition of a trench or excavation, common hazards associated with trenches and excavations, and OSHA’s requirements for worker safety in and around trenches and excavations. This course is not intended to qualify anyone as a competent person under OSHA guidelines. Upon completion of the learning event, the learner will display the ability to recognize the definition of a trench or excavation, common hazards associated with trenches and excavations, and OSHA’s requirements for worker safety in and around trenches and excavations.

Relevant Standards: OSHA 29 CFR 1926.650-652

• Linear Duration/min: 00:17:30
• Origin Date: 01/08
• Last Update: 09/08
• Complexity/Difficulty: Level I (very easy)
• Interactivity: Level II
• Supervising SME: Laura Belden
• Prerequisites: None

Competencies:

To successfully complete this course, the Learner will demonstrate the ability to:

• EXC 1.1.0 Recognize the course’s objectives 02:17
• EXC 1.2.0 Recognize the potential hazards associated with excavation and trenching 05:06
• EXC 1.3.0 Identify the responsibilities of the employee and competent person 01:07
• EXC 1.3.0 Recognize and identify common protective systems 01:46
• EXC 1.4.0 Identify various safe work practices for trenching and excavation work 01:47