Fairfax, VA — The National Utility Contractors Association is calling on employers involved in trench work to participate in the fourth annual Trench Safety Stand Down.
The event, scheduled for June 17-21, is aimed at raising awareness of trenching and excavation hazards while promoting the use of trench protective systems. The OSHA standard for trenching and excavation (29 CFR 1926.650, Subpart P) requires protective systems for trenches that are 5 feet or deeper, unless the excavation occurs in stable rock.
NUCA, the North American Excavation Shoring Association and OSHA are offering numerous free online tools – including posters, checklists, fact sheets and videos – as part of the event. To participate, email NUCA at [email protected].
According to OSHA, 23 workers died in trench collapses in 2016, more than the combined total from 2014 and 2015. One cubic yard of soil can weigh as much as 3,000 pounds, the agency states.
