An unprotected trench is an early grave. OSHA has made reducing trenching and excavation hazards the Agency’s Priority Goal because trench collapses, or cave-ins, pose the greatest risk to workers’ lives.
The 2019 National Trench Safety Stand-Down will be June 17-21. Like the National Safety Stand-Down to Prevent Falls, employers are encouraged to plan a safety stand-down during this week to speak directly to employees about trench and excavation hazards and to reinforce the importance of using trench protective systems.
Who should participate?
Any construction company that engages in trenching operations, plumbers, military unions, associations, educational institutions, safety professionals, and safety equipment manufacturers. However, even employers whose work does not involve trenching or excavation can schedule a safety stand-down to discuss the specific safety hazards present at their worksites.
How can companies participate?
- Plan a toolbox talk or other safety activity to draw attention to the hazards related to working in and around trenches/excavations
- Take a break and talk about trench safety
- Provide training for all workers
OSHA reminds employees that to prevent cave-ins: Slope it. Shore it. Shield It.
SLOPE or bench trench walls
SHORE trench walls with supports, or
SHIELD trench walls with trench boxes
More Information and Additional Resources
- NUCA’s Trench Safety Stand Down Resources
- OSHA’s Trenching and Excavation Site
- OSHA Public Service Announcement video: 5 Things You Should Know to Stay Safe in a Trench
- OSHA Fact Sheet: Trenching and Excavation Safety
- OSHA Quick Card: Working Safely in Trenches