Excavation and Trenching Safety (US)

Designed for construction workers and safety officers, this course covers hazard recognition, protective systems, and emergency response to ensure a safer environment while carrying out excavation and trenching work.
Certificate of Completion
Duration: 27 Minutes
Language: English
Level: Certificate

Introduction to Excavation and Trenching Safety (US) Training

In the construction industry, excavation and trenching operations are an integral part of the process, but hazardous situations can not be overlooked. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, excavation and trenching are among the most dangerous activities, and they should be governed by strict policies and rules. Therefore, we bring to you our online Excavation and Trenching Safety course with flexible classes and certification. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the trench collapsing causes over 50% of fatalities. There is a need to take rapid precautionary measures to handle such situations and avoid casualties.

Excavation & Trenching Safety Video Preview

Watch this short intro of the safety course.

Outline

Introduction
- Welcome
- About This Training Program
- Why You’re Here Today
- Learning Objectives
- Knowledge Check: This Training Course
Definitions and Requirements
- Definitions
- Remember the Risks
- Mechanics of Soil
- Collapse
- Conditions that Increase Chance of Cave-in
- Competent Person
- Knowledge Check: Risk of Cave-In
- Knowledge Check: Competent Person
- Specific Excavation Requirements
- Remove or Support Surface Objects
Utilities
- Underground Utilities
- What Can Happen?
- Some Examples
- Knowledge Check: Utilities
Excavation Risks
- Getting In and Out of the Excavation
- Knowledge Check: Points of Access and Egress
- Hazardous Breathing Conditions
- Water Accumulation
- Protection from Loose Rock or Soil
- Knowledge Check: Soil or Spill Piles
- Fall Protection
Soil
- Common Soil Classifications
- Knowledge Check: Soil Classification 1
- Knowledge Check: Soil Classification 2
- Knowledge Check: Soil Classification 3
- Knowledge Check: Soil Classification 4
Staying Safe
- Sloping and Benching
- Shoring and Shielding
- Learning Activity: Sloping Type A Soil
- Learning Activity: Sloping Type B Soil
- Learning Activity: Sloping Type C Soil
- Shielding (Trench Boxes)
- Liability Exposure
- Rescue Operations
- Work Safely
Conclusion
- Summary

Objectives

Features

Audience

Exam Info

FAQ

What are the rules for trenching and excavation?

According to OSHA standards, there should be safe access and egress to all excavation sites, including the use of ladders, ramps, steps, or other safe means of exit.

What are the safe operating procedures for excavation?

It's important to prepare and inspect the excavation site. You must eliminate all physical hazards and establish boundaries to ensure safety. Use guardrails or fences.

What are the OSHA standard subpart P sloping requirements for excavations?

According to the standards, All simple slope excavations 20 feet or less in depth shall have a maximum allowable slope of 1 1⁄2:1.

What PPE is required for excavation?

The necessary PPE includes wearing a hard hat, hearing protection, safety shoes, wraparound eye protection and goggles.

How long can a trench be left open?

The standard time for leaving a trench excavation open is typically 1 hour or less.