U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data show that 271 workers died in trenching or excavation cave-ins from 2000 through 2006. OSHA states that in addition to collapse, other hazards include working with heavy machinery, manual handling of materials, working in proximity to traffic, electrical hazards from overhead and underground power lines and underground utilities such as natural gas. 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. The hazards are general and not site specific. This course is not intended to qualify anyone as a competent person by OSHA standards.

Relevant Standards: 29 CFR 1926.650 – 653

• Linear Duration/min: 00:12:31
• Origin Date: 05/09
• Last Update: 05/09
• Complexity/Difficulty: Level I (very easy)
• Interactivity: Level II
• Supervising SME: Trey Greene
• Prerequisites: None

Competencies:

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

• OGS 10.2.0 Identify the OSHA regulations and definitions that apply to trenching and excavation 02:17
• OGS 10.3.0 Recognize the potential hazards associated with excavation and trenching 05:06
• OGS 10.4.0 Identify the responsibilities of the employee and competent person 01:07
• OGS 10.5.0 Recognize and identify protective systems 01:46
• OGS 10.6.0 Identify various safe work practices 01:47