Trenching Safety

This course discusses the inherent dangers of trenching operations and outlines the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) rules and regulations on construction excavation. Recognizing the potential cave-in factors, identifying soils, using proper sloping and shoring techniques, and backfilling are all discussed, along with pneumatic and hydraulic shoring systems. A review and work problems using OSHA’s timber shoring charts gives the participants knowledge and use of this valuable resource. A review of work zone traffic control and the one-call system (Miss Utility) will also be presented. The session will close with discussions on the importance of a qualified inspector and recordkeeping.