Excavation and Trenching

Excavation means any man-made cut, cavity, trench, or depression in an earth surface, formed by earth removal.

Trench (Trench excavation) means a narrow excavation (in relation to its length) made below the surface of the ground.

Prevent trench cave-ins:

  • SLOPE or bench trench walls,
  • SHORE trench walls with supports, or
  • SHIELD trench walls with trench boxes

Trench Fatality Fact Sheet

Provides the investigative process after a trench fatality.

Safe Work Practices

  • Have a safe way to enter and exit.
  • Ensure trenches have cave-in protection.
  • Keep materials and equipment away from edge of trench.
  • Ensure trenches are inspected by a competent person before entering.
  • Keep the trench free of standing water and atmospheric hazards.
  • Trenches that are 5 feet deep or greater should have a protective system.

Excavations and Trenching eTool

Provides access to federal OSHA's eTool on excavations and trenching.

Excavation and Trenching

Provides additional resources and information on excavations and trenching.