Since 2016, OSHA has partnered with the National Utility Contractors Association (NUCA) to sponsor an annual Trench Safety Stand-Down. The goal is to raise awareness of excavation hazards and reduce the number of fatalities and serious injuries that occur each year in the construction industry. The event strives to reach out to those working in and around trenches and excavations and provides information about the most current excavation requirements and safety procedures.
This year, Trench Safety Stand Down Week (June 15-19) will once again present an opportunity for employers to talk directly to employees about the importance of safety at the job site. This Stand Down focuses on the hazards associated with Trenching and Excavations and reinforces the critical importance of using trench protective systems, such as sloping, shoring, and shielding.
The effort is to encourage and make it easy for employers and construction site owners/operators to hold a Stand Down at their jobsites. There is no cost to participate; companies are simply encouraged to pause work temporarily to hold toolbox talks and safety demonstrations focused on trenching and excavation safety. NUCA will email a Certificate of Participation to all participating companies and hardhat stickers for individuals.
On the NUCA website, those who would like to participate can find links to:
- Toolbox Talks
- Training Materials
- Safety Checklists
- OSHA Resources for Trenching Safety
- Podcasts and Articles
Novisal’s Construction Site Safety Personnel can help your organization address the issues of hazards while working around trenches and excavations. Reach out today!