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SH Programbullet		 Trenching and Excavation
Cave-ins are perhaps the most feared trenching hazard. But other potentially fatal hazards exist, including asphyxiation due to lack of oxygen in a confined space, inhalation of toxic fumes, drowning, etc. Electrocution or explosions can occur when workers contact underground utilities.

OSHA requires that workers in trenches and excavations be protected, and that safety and health programs address the variety of hazards they face. The following hazards cause the most trenching and excavation injuries:

Worker in a trench with no protective system No Protective System
Workers at an excavation site Failure to Inspect Trench and Protective Systems
Unsafe spoil pile next to a trench Unsafe Spoil-Pile Placement
Workers in a trench Unsafe Access/Egress
Did you know? The fatality rate for excavation work is 112% higher than the rate for general construction.
Did you know?
The fatality rate for
excavation work is 112%
higher than the rate for
general construction.


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Occupational Safety & Health Administrations
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Washington, DC 20210		 Page last updated: 03/03/2009