If no one’s inspecting the trench, no one should be in it.
OSHA requires that a competent person inspect all excavations daily and after any hazard-increasing event, such as rain or vibration. These toolbox talks cover the definition of a competent person, inspection frequency, documentation practices, soil condition changes, protective system evaluations, and hazard recognition. Use them to ensure every trench is evaluated by someone trained and authorized to keep workers safe.
Use these toolbox talks to reinforce the role of a competent person in excavation safety and ensure OSHA-compliant trench inspections are performed every shift.
