Q&A: Initial training requirements for excavation workers
What are the initial training requirements for workers involved in and assisting with excavations?
Training must be based on the potential hazards encountered by the employees. A job hazard analysis should be conducted to determine the job- or site-specific hazards for which training may be required. Under 29 CFR 1926.21(b)(2) “[t]he employer shall instruct each employee in the recognition and avoidance of unsafe conditions and the regulations applicable to his work environment to control or eliminate any hazards or other exposure to illness or injury.”
To comply with 29 CFR 1926.21(b)(2), personnel who conduct work within or in the vicinity of excavations must receive training before beginning work at the site.
Training must include:
- Requirements of the OSHA Excavations standard
- Requirements of company excavation safety policies, if any
- Work practices
- Hazards relating to excavation work
- Methods of protection for excavation hazards
- Use of PPE
- Procedures regarding hazardous atmospheres
- Emergency and nonentry rescue procedures
Excavation activities subject to 29 CFR 1926 Subpart P–Excavations are required to have a “competent person” carry out specific activities as required by the regulations.
A competent person must have training in and be knowledgeable about:
- Soils analysis
- The requirements of the excavation regulations
- Methods of evaluating the site and conducting inspections
- Evaluation and selection of protective systems and other protection methods
- Requirements under additional applicable regulations such as confined spaces and fall protection
OSHA offers guidance titled Trenching and Excavation Safety.
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