Excavation & Trenching Safety Inspection

Complete this inspection daily and after any condition change (rain, vibration, frost) before workers enter any excavation or trench per OSHA 29 CFR 1926 Subpart P, OSHA 1926.651-652, and international standards including UK HSE, India BIS, Brazil NR-18, and Mexico NOM-031-STPS. A competent person must conduct this inspection.

  • Industry: Construction
  • Frequency: Daily / After weather events / After condition changes
  • Estimated Time: 30-45 minutes
  • Role: Competent Person
  • Total Items: 49
  • Compliance: OSHA 1926.650 (Scope), OSHA 1926.651 (General Requirements), OSHA 1926.652 (Protective Systems), OSHA Appendix A (Soil Classification), OSHA Appendix B (Sloping/Benching)

Soil Classification & Testing

Classify soil per OSHA 1926 Appendix A. Competent person must classify soil using visual and manual tests. Classification determines protective system requirements.

  • Soil classification performed by competent person?
  • Visual tests performed (grain size, fissures, layers)?
  • Manual tests performed (thumb penetration, plasticity)?
  • Soil Classification
  • Water seepage or accumulation present?
  • Is soil previously disturbed (fill, excavated)?
  • Vibration sources nearby (traffic, equipment)?

Protective Systems

Verify protective systems per OSHA 1926.652. Trenches 5 feet or deeper require sloping, benching, shoring, or shielding (unless in stable rock).

  • Protective system required (depth 5+ feet)?
  • Protective System Type
  • Protective system properly installed?
  • Sloping angle correct for soil type?
  • Benching configuration correct (Type A or B only)?
  • Shoring meets tabulated data or engineer design?
  • Trench shield meets manufacturer specifications?
  • Shield extends at least 18 inches above hazard zone?

Surface Conditions & Spoil

Check surface encumbrances, spoil pile placement, and edge conditions per OSHA 1926.651(j).

  • Spoil pile at least 2 feet from excavation edge?
  • Spoil pile stable and not sliding back?
  • Surface encumbrances (trees, rocks, equipment) removed or supported?
  • Barricades/stop logs installed for vehicle traffic?
  • Walkways and crossings structurally sound?
  • Excavation barricaded and warning signs posted?

Access & Egress

Verify safe means of entry and exit per OSHA 1926.651(c). Ladders required within 25 feet of workers in trenches 4 feet or deeper.

  • Ladder provided within 25 feet of workers?
  • Ladder extends 3 feet above landing?
  • Ladder secured against displacement?
  • Ladder in good condition (no damage)?
  • Ramps have cleats (if used)?
  • Multiple egress points for long excavations?

Underground Utilities & Hazards

Check utility locates and hazardous atmospheres per OSHA 1926.651(b) and (g).

  • Underground utilities located prior to excavation?
  • Utility locations marked on surface?
  • Exposed utilities supported and protected?
  • Safe clearance from gas lines (hand dig within 18 in)?
  • Atmosphere tested for hazards (trenches >4 ft)?
  • Ventilation or respiratory protection provided?
  • Emergency rescue equipment available?

Water Accumulation & Control

Check water hazards and dewatering per OSHA 1926.651(h). Water must be controlled to protect workers.

  • Standing water removed or controlled?
  • Dewatering equipment in use (if needed)?
  • Surface water diverted away from excavation?
  • Seepage monitored during excavation?
  • Weather monitored for potential flooding?

Equipment & Mobile Operations

Check equipment operations near excavation per OSHA 1926.651(e-f).

  • Equipment positioned away from excavation edge?
  • Spotter used for equipment near excavation?
  • Workers clear during equipment loading/operations?
  • Workers protected from falling loads?
  • Warning system for approaching equipment?

Daily Inspection Requirements

Verify ongoing inspection per OSHA 1926.651(k). Competent person must inspect daily and after events.

  • Daily inspection conducted before work?
  • Re-inspected after rain, freeze, vibration, or other changes?
  • Protective systems inspected for damage/displacement?
  • All identified hazards corrected before work?
  • Inspection findings documented?

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