Excavation and Trenching Safety Plan
Excavation and trenching are among the most hazardous construction operations. This plan highlights key elements of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Excavation and Trenching Standard, 29 CFR 1926.650 – Subpart P.
The Excavation and Trenching Safety Plan applies to all college employees, as well as contractors working for the College.
Appropriate safety equipment (e.g., shoring, shielding, equipment, etc.) shall be provided by the College when such equipment is necessary to protect the health and safety of the employee(s). The supervising department is responsible for purchasing the equipment.
A competent person shall be placed in charge of excavations by the supervising department. The competent person will be evaluated and designated by the supervising department according to the provisions in the Plan. Status as a competent person shall be reviewed every 3 years by the department supervisor.
Competent Person is one who is capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards in the surroundings, or working conditions which are unsanitary, hazardous or dangerous to employees, and who has authorization to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them.
Specific Excavation Requirements
Requirements for Protective Systems