OSHA Out with New Trenching Safety Materials
Trench-related injuries are preventable when workers are properly trained and the required protections are in place, OSHA notes. The agency is making new compliance assistance resources available.
OSHA has developed some new compliance assistance resources to help keep workers safe from trenching and excavation hazards. The resources continue the goals of the Labor Department's recently announced Office of Compliance Initiatives and encourage and facilitate compliance evaluations, according to the agency.
U.S. Secretary of Labor Alexander Acosta recorded audio public service announcements in English and Spanish, highlighting effective ways to stay safe when working around trenches and excavations. A 45-second video titled "5 Things You Should Know to Stay Safe" also highlights proven safety measures that can eliminate hazards and prevent worker injuries.
Additional resources are an updated Trench Safety QuickCard, OSHA's revised "Protect Workers in Trenches" poster, and an updated trenching and excavation webpage.