Trenching And Excavation Safety
OSHA defines excavation as a man made cavity,cut,trench that is formed in the ground by the removal of the earth. A trench is a narrow underground excavation that is deeper than it is wide. It is also no wider than fifteen feet. Many people use trenching and excavation safety including plumbers,electricians,contractors and city workers. This is considered one of the most dangerous jobs by OSHA that is why trenching and excavation safety is so important.
12 Trenching And Excavation Tips
1. Trenches over five feet deep require a safety system to reduce the chance of a cave in.
2. Never leave heavy equipment on the edge of a trench..
3. You should contact all utilities in the area to make sure there are no underground pipes or wires. Often electric and cable companies run the wires underground now. Also natural gas in run through pipes in the ground.
4..Never work in a trench that is filling with water no matter how slow it may be leaking in.
5.. If there is a rainstorm check to make sure the hole has not been compromised before entering again.
6. Before each entry test for toxic fumes,gases and oxygen levels to be sure it is safe to enter.
7If an accident should occur call for help immediately. Never try to rescue the person on your own or you could also become hurt.
8. You must have an exit from the trench either a ramp or a ladder will meetOSHA’s trenching and excavating safety standards.
9. The ladder must be secured and extend at least three feet over the top of the trench at all times.10.Soil should be tested for stability and you should always know what type of soil you are working in.
10.All water removal systems equipment must be maintained and in proper working condition at all times.
11. Have all first aid and safety equipment ready to go and close by in case it is needed. Make sure you have an oxygen tank,a safety basket,harness and a stretcher on the site and that all employees are trained to use them correctly.
12 If employees have to cross over the excavation site to reach the other side of the job you must erect a walkway with guardrails over the trench.
Using trenching and excavation Safety will help keep your employees safe. It will also help you to promote a safe and happy workplace. If you are inspected by OSHA and fail to meet their trenching and excavation safety guidelines you job site will be shut down until the proper codes and regulations are in place.
12 Trenching And Excavation Tips
1. Trenches over five feet deep require a safety system to reduce the chance of a cave in.
2. Never leave heavy equipment on the edge of a trench..
3. You should contact all utilities in the area to make sure there are no underground pipes or wires. Often electric and cable companies run the wires underground now. Also natural gas in run through pipes in the ground.
4..Never work in a trench that is filling with water no matter how slow it may be leaking in.
5.. If there is a rainstorm check to make sure the hole has not been compromised before entering again.
6. Before each entry test for toxic fumes,gases and oxygen levels to be sure it is safe to enter.
7If an accident should occur call for help immediately. Never try to rescue the person on your own or you could also become hurt.
8. You must have an exit from the trench either a ramp or a ladder will meetOSHA’s trenching and excavating safety standards.
9. The ladder must be secured and extend at least three feet over the top of the trench at all times.10.Soil should be tested for stability and you should always know what type of soil you are working in.
10.All water removal systems equipment must be maintained and in proper working condition at all times.
11. Have all first aid and safety equipment ready to go and close by in case it is needed. Make sure you have an oxygen tank,a safety basket,harness and a stretcher on the site and that all employees are trained to use them correctly.
12 If employees have to cross over the excavation site to reach the other side of the job you must erect a walkway with guardrails over the trench.
Using trenching and excavation Safety will help keep your employees safe. It will also help you to promote a safe and happy workplace. If you are inspected by OSHA and fail to meet their trenching and excavation safety guidelines you job site will be shut down until the proper codes and regulations are in place.
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