Scout's Toolbox Talks

Not all soil is created equal. Some holds its shape, others collapse without warning. Knowing what you’re digging into determines how you stay safe.

Why It Matters:

Improper soil classification is a leading cause of trench collapses. Misjudging the soil can lead to the wrong protection system — and deadly results.

Key Points:

• OSHA recognizes three types:
  • Type A: Most stable (e.g., clay)
  • Type B: Medium stability (e.g., silt, angular gravel)
  • Type C: Least stable (e.g., sand, gravel, soil with water)
• Type C is the most dangerous — it cannot be benched.
• Classification determines whether you use sloping, shoring, or shielding.
• A Competent Person must perform testing using visual/manual methods or lab results.

✅ If you don’t know your soil, you don’t know your risk.

Ask the Crew:

• What type of soil are we working with today?
• Who classified it, and how was it tested?
• Are we using the right protective system for that soil type?

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