Publisher’s Commentary: Industry Insights—Trench Safety
Educating workers about the safety procedures for trench work is essential for any construction job site. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) standard on trenching and excavation (1926.650, Subpart P) requires protective systems for trenches that are 5 feet or deeper, with the exception of stable rock excavation.1 Trench collapses are “rarely survivable” because a cubic yard of soil can weigh as much as 3,000 pounds.2
Before digging commences, workers must beware of underground lines. Hitting lines can cause explosions, electrocution, and inhalation of gases or other toxic substances.3 Working in trenches can be hazardous due to their instability. Digging creates holes where water can enter, changing the soil around it. The longer the side of the excavation is left unsupported, the more likely it is to cave-in.
Just because the trench is deep, does not mean you have enough time to escape before collapse. Soil will surround and trap you, and can cause broken bones and internal bleeding.? Asphyxiation, due to lack of oxygen in a confined space, is often the cause of death in trench collapses.? In some cases, workers injuries are fatal, even if they are rescued from a trench collapse. The weight of the soil may not allow you to expand your chest resulting in traumatic asphyxia.? Oxygen will not be able to flow through the blood efficiently, causing damage to the cells. Construction workers should receive training to be aware of the dangers of excavation and the precautions needed to work safely on any job site.
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