Fairfax, VA — The National Utility Contractors Association is calling on employers involved in trench work to participate in the Trench Safety Stand Down, set for June 15-19.
The national event is intended to raise awareness of trench and excavation hazards, protective trench system requirements, and safety procedures for work in and around trenches and excavations. Participation is open to both NUCA members and nonmembers. The association encourages utility construction, residential, highway construction, plumbers, military, unions, associations, educational institutes and safety equipment manufacturers to participate.
According to a data bulletin from CPWR – The Center for Construction Research and Training, 39 workers across all industries died while performing trench and excavation work in 2022, up from 15 the year before. The construction industry accounted for 85% of fatal trenching injuries from 2011 to 2021 and 90% of nonfatal injuries from 2011 to 2022.
The stand-down website includes links to training materials, toolbox talks, a safety checklist and podcasts.
Registration is available online.
