Guide to Trenching and Excavation Safety

Trenching and excavation present multiple hazards including falls, hazardous atmospheres, water accumulation and incidents involving loads or mobile equipment. Cave-ins pose the greatest risk to excavation workers as they cause dozens of fatalities and hundreds of injuries each year. This document highlights key items that can help protect workers from these hazards. Utilize the resources at the end of this document and in applicable OSHA Standards for specific training and experience requirements.