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Excavation safety is a standard set of precautions that cover trenching and excavation. These safety rules aim to eliminate risks and hazards per the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) regulations.
Like anything in the construction industry, trenching safety standards are set to protect workers from injuries. Contractors can also protect themselves from liabilities by maintaining workplace safety standards.
Here are some of the common queries regarding excavation safety you may have in your mind and their corresponding answers:
There is no difference. Trenching is defined as a narrow excavation that is usually deeper as opposed to wide. The term ‘excavation’ encompasses man-made cuts on the earth’s surface. In other words, all trenches are excavations, but not all excavations involve trenches.
According to OSHA, a competent person is any person authorized by the employer to determine and predict hazards on work sites. These include conditions that are unsanitary or hazardous for workers. A competent person can also perform corrective measures to remove such issues and ensure site safety.
Some of the tasks they are responsible for handling include:
Whether an employer is experienced in managing trenching and other excavations, they still need to approach each new site and job as if it is their first. Many accidents on construction sites result from an overconfident or negligent site supervisor who fails to take standard precautions before starting a project.
Corrective actions to rectify on-the-job incidents take up a lot of your time, human resources, and money as operations slow down or reach a standstill. It also increases the likelihood of cave-ins.
Before bidding, they should research the job site, materials required for safety checks, and ensure they follow OSHA regulations. Some of the factors they should consider beforehand include the following:
An excavator is an essential piece of equipment that is used for trenching and other excavations. However, before it is used, make sure that:
These were just some of the excavation safety standards employers should follow to ensure their workers are safe on-site and protect their business from liabilities. However, you cannot predict every risk. That is where construction insurance comes in.
SIA Insurance Group offers various insurance options for construction businesses and contractors. We understand that no two projects are alike and will work with you to develop a custom package and risk management program that can work for you. Our team comprises experienced and knowledgeable individuals who can provide cost-efficient solutions for small and middle markets. Contact us for a consultation today!
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