Essential Safety Protocols When Working With Excavations
Trenching and excavation are essential tasks in the construction industry, but they also pose significant hazards to workers. According to (OSHA), trench collapses are one of the leading causes of fatalities in the construction industry. To ensure the safety of workers, it’s essential to follow proper protocols and procedures when working in trenches and excavations. Below are some of the general excavation and trench shoring rules set by a group of excavating contractor experts:
Heavy equipment is to be kept away from the edges of the trench
When working in the trench, especially in the process of shoring, safety measures that ensure the welfare of the people working there are maintained are key. Heavy equipment falling inside trenches is a common phenomenon that has proved to be hazardous to workers. The safety measure that should always be taken towards it is to avoid placing them at the edges of the trenches since instances of soil slip can lead to fatal accidents.
Avoid working under raised loads
Environments that entail raised loads, hanging equipment, and kentledge tend to experience falls especially as a result of a failure of the lifting treads or a piece falling. Working in a trench environment presents dangers with the raised loads especially where it involves many workers concentrated in a specific location. The competent worker should be informed about the risks involved with the raised and suspended loads and should inform colleagues of their dangers.
Testing the area for toxic fumes
Depending on the piping systems that were embedded within it, there can be toxic fumes, gases, and insufficient oxygen conditions that may be unfit for the workers. Provided this is tested and the trench is safe, the workers can just do their job, while in the situation of safety, the gears that enable it can be put in for convenient working conditions.
If you are in need of a trusted excavating contractor, STS Tractor Services is here for you. We offer high-quality services at affordable rates in Port St. Lucie, FL. If you want to take your project to the next level, contact us at (772) 202-6911 today!