Scout's Toolbox Talks

A single cubic yard of soil can weigh over 3,000 pounds. That’s enough to crush a worker instantly in a trench collapse.

Why It Matters:

Cave-ins are the leading cause of trench fatalities. Preventing collapses means using proper protection every time.

Key Points:

• Never enter a trench deeper than 5 feet without proper protective systems: shoring, shielding, or sloping.
• Trenches must be inspected daily and after rain or disturbance.
• Never assume the soil will hold – assume it won’t.

✅ Protect the hole, protect your life.

Ask the Crew:

• Are we using the right cave-in protection today?
• Who’s the competent person on-site?

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