Locate Hidden Obstructions

Obtain plans and/or in states where mandated, call underground service company in order to locate any underground pipes or utilities that would interfere with the trench.  Be aware that these records may not be accurate.  The obstructions revealed should be physically located, and either removed or protected from damage.

Beware of Disturbed Ground

Take precautions when excavating in previously backfilled or disturbed soil.  Trenches in disturbed soil may require additional sheeting or bracing, as will hard compact ground, if there is filled ground nearby.

Conditions that Affect the Kind and Amount of Shoring Needed

A.      Depth of trench

If the trench is five feet deep or more, it must be shored or sloped.If there is a possibility of soil movement, even shallower trenches must be shored.When in doubt, shore.

B.      The more liquid in the soil, the more you need to protect yourself against cave-in.

C.      Changing weather conditions

          Hard packed soil can become soupy and unstable after rain.

          Trenches, which are safely sloped or shored in dry weather,      can become deathtraps when it’s wet.

Safety Precautions

A.      Don’t park heavy equipment next to a trench.

B.      Always wear your assigned personal protective equipment.

C.      Don’t stand or work under loaded lifting or digging equipment.

D.     Watch out for people below when you work on the sides of sloped or benched excavations.

E.      You can’t work on such sides unless the employees below are well protected from falling, rolling, and sliding material or equipment.

F.      Keep materials away from edges of excavations.  Keep all materials at least two feet from the edge.

G.     When an operator of moving machinery doesn’t have a clear view of the edge of an excavation, barricades, stop logs or some type of warning system must be used.

Stay on full alert at all times during excavation jobs.  Keep an eye out for any conditions that could cause cave-ins, such as cracks, bulges, or signs the ground is moving.