Working on hazardous job sites is considered a normal activity for those in the construction and utility industries – some of our customers are in the trenches daily! When performing this work, it’s important that safety is top priority at all times.

Serious injuries or even loss of life can be the end result of trench safety mishaps and other common excavation mistakes. By understanding the best occupational safety tips for working in trenches and performing routine trench inspections, you can ensure worker safety and improve the efficiency and effectiveness of your work environment.

IMPORTANT TIPS FROM CAT RENTAL STORE’S “TRENCH SAFETY TIPS” BLOG

Unprotected trenches are the cause of numerous avoidable injuries every year. With proper preparation, safety procedures and regular inspections, this can be prevented. When working in trenches, it’s crucial to incorporate proper safety protections like:

• Sloping: Angling the trench walls away from the excavation site.
• Cutting: Creating stepped grades for certain types of soil.
• Shaving: Installing trench supports, like aluminum or hydraulic materials, to prevent soil movement.
• Shielding: Using trench boxes or other tools to prevent soil cave-ins.

For more information and assistance complying with OSHA trenching and excavation regulations, please contact your local Altorfer Rents branch today.