ExcavationInstructional Goal: through class participation and discussion, the participant will identify the issues and hazards related to trenching and excavation on a hazardous waste site as well as some of the methods used to eliminate or reduce the risks.

Excavation Standards (became effective 05 March 1990)

to add and clarify definitions

to eliminate duplicate provisions and ambiguous language

to give employers added flexibility in providing protection for employees

Scope and Application applies to all open excavations made in the

earth’s surface, which includes trenches a trench is referred to as a narrow

excavation made below the surface of the ground in which the depth is greater than the width, the width not exceeding 15 feet

an excavation is any human made cut, cavity, trench, or depression in the earth’s surface formed by earth removal

Planning for Safety many on-the-job accidents are a

direct result of inadequate planning develop safety checklists before

preparing a bid, to make certain that information about the job site is adequate– traffic– nearness of structures– surface and ground water– water table– overhead and underground utilities– weather

Employer’s Safety and Health Program

be sure safety policies are implemented effectively

no employee should operate any equipment without proper training

provide workers who are exposed to public traffic with warning vests

establish and maintain a safety and health program

On-The-Job Evaluation

inspection of the excavation on a daily basis

supervisors should conduct inspections, investigate accidents, and anticipate hazards

managers and supervisors must set an example of job site safety

employees must take an active role in job safety

Cave-Ins and Protective Support Systems

supporting the sides of the excavation

sloping or benching

15 FT

10 FT

SLOPE 1 1/2:1

SLOPE 1 1/2:1

20 Ft or Less20 Ft or Less

Safety Precautions

provide support systems prohibit excavation below the level of

the base or footing of any foundation excavations under sidewalks and

pavements prohibited unless appropriately designed support system is provided

Materials and Equipment

free from damage and defects

materials and equipment are maintained

damaged materials and equipment are examined by a competent person to determine if they are suitable for continued use

Installation and Removal of Protective Systems

securely connect members of support systems

safely install support systems never overload members of

support systems install other structural

members to carry loads when temporary removal of individual members is necessary

Other Hazards

falls and equipment water accumulation hazardous atmospheres access and egress

RiskAvoid