1. OSHA has made reducing trenching and excavation hazards an Agency Priority Goal in 2019
OSHA updated Trenching Emphasis Program
Trenching Facts
130 worker trenching/excavation fatalities from 2011 and 2016.
49% of those fatalities occurred between 2015 and 2016.
Compliance Safety and Health Officers shall initiate inspections whenever they observe an open trench or an open excavation, regardless of whether or not a violation is readily observed.
Hazards
Cave-ins of trench walls or adjacent structures.
Having safe methods to enter and exit excavations.
Hazards from vehicular traffic.
Dangerous atmospheres or water hazards.
Heavy loads, equipment, or tools falling down into a trench.
If you see something, say something.
To report a worker exposed to any hazards or if you have questions please call the Boston North OSHA Office at