Safeguarding Workers During Trenching and Excavation Operations
Trenching and excavation are among the most hazardous operations in the construction industry. Annual fatalities have increased from an average of 21 per year from 2011–2017 to 39 in 2022 alone, with construction accounting for more than 80% of those1,2.
In response to the number of deaths in 2022, OSHA launched an enhanced enforcement initiative to protect workers from industry hazards. As part of the initiative, OSHA enforcement staff was directed to consider all tools at the agency’s disposal to include increased inspections, enforcement and additional emphasis on penalties.
Ensuring worker safety in these environments requires a strong commitment to planning, training, and compliance with established safety standards.
Hazards:
- Struck by falling rock, material or equipment
- Hazardous atmospheres
- Falls
What’s Behind the Issue
- Indifference (e.g., “It won’t happen on my watch”) – 58.1%
- Lack of knowledge of OSHA 1926.650 Trenching and Excavation standard – 52.2%
The results showed there are deficiencies throughout the industry in training, education and awareness of the hazards associated with trenching activities.
What You Can Do
Most trenching and excavation injuries and fatalities are preventable. According to NIOSH, the most effective way to prevent trenching fatalities is to use trenchless alternatives, such as directional drilling/boring, pipe lining, pipe jacking, etc. 4
- Designate a competent person
- Implement protective systems for trenches 5 feet or deeper
- Never allow entry into an unprotected trench
- Conduct refresher training (e.g., toolbox talks)
- Participate in Trench Safety Stand Down Week
Training and Education
- Equipment hazards
- Materials near trench edges
- Standing water
- Hazardous atmospheres
- Fall risks
- Entry/exit issues
- Nearby roadways or structures
Training must be in a language and format workers understand and should be documented.
Adhere to Excavation Standards and Regulations
- Utility location
- Site hazard assessment
- Competent person assignment
- Emergency action planning
- Soil classification
- Trenching techniques (benching, sloping)
- Safeguards (shoring, trench boxes)
- Safe egress
- Water accumulation management
- Hazardous atmosphere protocols
- Inspections and supervision
Call to Action
Trenching and excavation is hazardous work. To help mitigate the issue, Nationwide developed a Trenching and Excavation Safety resource (PDF) that offers an overview of industry best practices for trenching and excavation.
Nationwide Toolbox Talks are also available to support jobsite safety discussions:
Employers should review their trench safety programs and participate in national safety initiatives like Trench Safety Stand Down Week.
1 National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). Trenching and Excavation Safety. February 23, 2024.
2 U.S. Department of Labor. State Agencies, Industry Leaders Launch Campaign to Educate Workers of Deadly Excavation Hazards. April 10th, 2023.
3 National Safety Council. Trench and Excavation Hazards: Insight on Newly Acquired Data and Managing the Risks (PDF). September 6, 2019.
4 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Preventing Trench Fatalities. June 6, 2019.
5 Occupational Safety and Health Administration. https://www.osha.gov/laws-