Digging Safely: Your Guide to Trench Safety Stand Down Week

Trenching is one of the most hazardous tasks in construction and utility work. According to OSHA, trenching-related accidents kill on average 40 workers every year. The good news? These tragedies are preventable.

That’s the mission behind Trench Safety Stand Down (TSSD) Week, an annual initiative led by the National Utility Contractors Association and supported by OSHA. This weeklong campaign in June encourages construction employers to pause work and focus on educating their teams about trench and excavation safety.

Why Trench Safety Stand Down Week Matters

TSSD Week focuses on raising awareness and promoting safe practices. It’s a chance for employers to reinforce the importance of trench protective systems and ensure their teams are equipped with the knowledge to stay safe on the job.

Trenching Dangers

Excavations are any human-made cut, cavity, trench, or depression in the earth’s surface formed by removing soil. Trenches are narrow excavations with a depth greater than the width and where the bottom width is no more than 15 feet.

Cave-ins are the deadliest trenching hazard. Just one cubic yard of soil can weigh as much as a car. Yet cave-ins are not the only risk. Others include:

• Falls
• Falling loads
• Hazardous atmospheres
• Mobile equipment accidents

Entering an unprotected trench is never worth the risk.

Trenching Safety Measures

Taking proper safety precautions can help prevent injuries and deaths at the worksite. Consider the following.

Pre-Planning and Assessing the Site

• Locate underground utilities before digging (call 811 in the U.S.).
• Assess soil type to determine the appropriate protective system.
• Check weather conditions; rain can increase the risk of collapse.

Using Protective Systems

Use one of the following OSHA-approved systems for trenches deeper than 5 feet:

• Sloping: Cutting the trench wall at an angle inclined away from the excavation.
• Shoring: Installing supports to prevent soil movement.
• Shielding: Using trench boxes to protect workers inside the trench.

Ensuring Safe Access and Egress

• Provide ladders, steps, or ramps within 25 feet of all workers.
• Ensure safe access and egress for trenches 4 feet deep or more.

Conducting Daily Inspections

• A competent person must inspect the trench and protective systems daily and after any event that could increase hazards (e.g., rain, vibrations).

Eliminating Hazards

• Keep heavy equipment away from trench edges.
• Keep spoil piles (excavated soil) at least 2 feet from trench edges.
• Be alert for hazardous atmospheres—test for low oxygen, toxic gases, and flammable gases in trenches.

Training and Communicating

• Train workers on trench hazards and emergency procedures.
• Maintain clear communication among team members.

Preparing for Emergencies

• Have a rescue plan in place.
• Ensure first aid and emergency contacts are readily available.

Stay Safe: Trenching Safety Checklist

Download this checklist for best practices to prevent trenching injuries and fatalities in and around trenches less than 20 feet deep.

Take a few minutes to learn other ways Hylant helps construction companies protect their people and their bottom line. To connect with one of our construction risk advisors, click here.

Related Reading: 9 Ways to Improve Construction Site Safety

The above information does not constitute advice. Always contact your insurance broker or trusted advisor for insurance-related questions.