Trenching Safety
At what depth does a protective system need to be used to protect employee working in trench?
Trenches over 5' in depth need to have protective systems installed to keep employee safe. Systems can be sloping, shoring, shielding, or benching.
At what depth is the use of a dead-man and personal fall arrest required?
When are PTP required?
Everyday. Prior to start of work.
What is the required minimum PPE standards?
Class 2 hardhat, steel-toe boots, gloves, eye protection, and safety vest.
To ensure safe operations during confined space operations what equipment is required to be used for maximum employee safety?
PPE, air monitor, blower, tri-pod w/ rescue winch, and proper training.
When working on vac truck/ trailer what additional PPE is required?
Face shield, hearing protection, and when required PFAS.
When shoring is being used as a protective system what is the maximum allowed spacing between bottom of shoring and bottom of trench?
Excavation of material to a level of no more than 2 feet below the bottom members of the support system is allowable.
When are you required to inspect personal fall arrest system equipment?
Prior to use, on a daily basis.
For safe entry oxygen (O2%) must be within the following range.
Safe oxygen range is 19.5% to 23.5%.
Are you required to update your PTP if tasks change?
Yes, when tasks change, an updated PTP is required to ensure hazard identification and control measures are in place.