According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), there has been an alarming rise in trench-related fatalities in the past few years. In response, the administration has announced enhanced nationwide enforcement and additional oversight measures.
OSHA sets standards for specific actions employers must take to ensure worker safety when excavating trenches. These regulations include using proper shoring and shielding systems, having a competent person inspect trenches daily, and providing cave-in protection training for all employees who work in trenches.
OCCU-TEC is urging all employers engaged in trenching and excavation activities to act immediately to ensure required protections are fully in place every single time their employees work near a trench. To learn more about the OSHA enforcement measures, click here.