Best Practice In Trenching, Shoring And Excavations

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

Understand Regulatory Requirements

• • Comprehend local and international safety regulations and standards governing trenching, shoring, and excavation work.

Identify Hazards and Risk Factors

• • Recognize common hazards associated with trenching and excavation, including cave-ins, falls, equipment hazards, and underground utilities.

Implement Effective Trenching and Shoring Techniques

• • Apply appropriate methods for trench support, including shoring, shielding, and sloping to prevent collapses.

Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Correctly

• • Demonstrate proper selection, inspection, and use of PPE specific to excavation worksites.

Plan and Execute Safe Excavation Operations

Content

Introduction to Trenching and Excavations

• Definition and scope of trenching and excavation works
• Importance of safe excavation practices
• Overview of workplace hazards associated with trenching

Legal and Regulatory Requirements

• Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards and local regulations
• Permit-to-work systems for excavation activities
• Roles and responsibilities of site management and workers

Soil Classification and Analysis

• Types of soil (cohesive, granular, mixed) and their characteristics
• Soil testing techniques (sieve analysis, moisture content, etc.)
• Determining soil stability and risk factors for trench collapse

Trenching Hazards and Risk Assessment

• Common excavation hazards: cave-ins, falls, flooding, hazardous atmospheres
• Conducting site-specific risk assessments
• Implementing hazard control measures

Shoring, Shielding, and Sloping Techniques

• Selection of appropriate trench support systems:
  • Shoring systems (hydraulic, timber, aluminum)
  • Shielding (trench boxes, trench shields)
  • Sloping and benching for excavation stability
• Design considerations based on trench depth and soil type

 Safe Excavation Practices

• Excavation planning and preparation
• Access and egress: ladders, ramps, and safe entry points
• Managing utilities and underground services
• Control of water accumulation and drainage in trenches