Washington Mandates Written Trenching Safety Plans
The Department of Labor & Industries aims to reduce excavation fatalities by requiring site-specific risk analysis and constant supervision.
- By Jesse Jacobs
- Apr 24, 2026
The Washington Department of Labor & Industries is introducing new requirements for trenching and excavation projects to combat a rise in workplace fatalities and injuries.
The Division of Occupational Safety and Health filed a Permanent Rulemaking (CR-103) on April 21, updating Chapter 296-155-650 of the Washington Administrative Code. The new regulations require employers to complete a written work plan before beginning any trenching work that necessitates a protective system.
Agency inspection data and recent fatality investigations prompted the change. While existing rules required employers to plan for the safe removal of injured workers from trenches, officials found that a more proactive approach to risk analysis was necessary to prevent accidents.
Under the new rule, a "competent person" must remain on the job site at all times while trenching excavation work is performed. Employers must also document their safety protocols using a work plan template provided by the state or a proprietary version that meets the new criteria.
The rule also establishes clear definitions for "work plan" and sets specific standards for recordkeeping and employee training. The requirements are scheduled to take effect June 1, 2026.
About the Author
Jesse Jacobs is assistant editor of OHSOnline.com.