Trenching & Excavating Safety
Overview
The University’s Excavating & Trenching Safety Program provides guidance to personnel conducting excavating, trenching, and shoring activities on campus. This procedure establishes responsibilities and standardizes training, operations, and work practices to assure the safety of personnel conducting these activities.
Written Program
Trenching & Excavating Safety Procedure (291kb, pdf)
Training Requirements
Trenching Awareness Training: Training is required for all personnel conducting trenching, excavating, and shoring activities. All persons working in and/or around trenches or excavations shall complete RMS Excavation, Trenching, and Shoring Training in eNDeavor. Training is required initially and every three years thereafter.
Competent Person Training: Designated competent persons who will be performing inspections and supervising trenching/excavating operations shall complete additional training. Contact RMS to assist in scheduling.
Resources
- OSHA Trenching and Excavation Safety Fact Sheet
- The OSHA Trenching and Excavation eTool provides additional information, requirements, and resources.
Forms
- Trenching & Excavating Safety Checklist (107 kb, pdf)
- Trenching & Excavating Field Audit (80 kb, pdf)
- Utilities Excavation Permit Procedure (106 kb, pdf)
- University Utility Locate Request & Excavation Permit (105 kb, pdf)