Workers face unique hazards on any jobsite that includes digging or trenching:
Mistakes Are Costly
OSHA fined a Florida excavation company $108,500 for improperly protecting their workers during a dig. OSHA cited the following violations:
OSHA Area Director Brian Sturtecky said, "Productivity and scheduling cannot ever take priority over worker safety." Simple safety measures can be the difference in saving lives. OSHA requires that all trenches and excavation sites 5-feet or deeper be protected against a collapse.
Dig Into Trench Safety
The DOT's Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) recognizes April as National Safe Digging Month. Safe Digging Month gives managers an opportunity to pause and ensure they are operating safely.
Follow these 5 steps to improve digging and trenching safety:
Always call 811 before starting any digging project. 811 is the national call-before-you-dig number to locate buried electrical and gas lines. This call sends professionals to the worksite to place markers that identify the location of buried hazards.
Keep Safe in Tight Spaces
Confined spaces present unique hazards that include cave-ins and toxic air. Some confined spaces require permits if the space:
Confined space safety starts with visual communication and continues with safe practices. Be mindful of your surroundings when digging trenches and working in confined areas. Follow OSHA guidelines. To ensure all buried hazards are accounted for, call 811 before you start a project. Proper preparation protects workers and keeps projects on schedule.