Protection Basics
Trench is 5ft deep, not in stable rock. What is required?
A protective system
4 ft trench. What access is required?
Safe access within 25ft
Water in trench. Main concern?
Soil weakening
No utility markings before digging. First step?
Call 811 and verify locations
Worker wants to enter unprotected trench "just for a minute." What is wrong?
Protection is required. Deny entry
Soil is layered. Which layer decides protection?
The weakest layer
Ladder only extends 1 ft above edge. What's wrong?
Unsafe top transition
Cracks near edge. What do they indicate?
Possible wall failure
Known utility not protected. What is required?
It must be supported or protected
Worker steps outside trench box. What is wrong?
They are outside the protected area
Trench is deeper than protection rating. What does that mean?
Protection may be invalid
Workers climb over tools to reach ladder. What's the issue?
Obstructed egress
Material falling from wall. What does that indicate?
Early instability
Markings are unclear. What do you do?
Call 811 and verify
Spoil at trench edge. What's the issue?
Surcharge on the trench wall
Uncertain if trench is safe. What to do?
Stop work and reassess.
Ladder is present but blocked. What must be done?
Clear access
Strong odor near sewer tie-in. What does it mean?
Atmospheric hazard potential
Told to dig without locates. Correct action?
Do not start. Call 811 and verify first
Trench intersects another excavation. What is required?
Reevaluate protection