So, what do you think, an incident waiting to happen?

Recently, 2 articles appeared in the news about trenching incidents.  The first was about a death in Kansas City and the second was about an incident in the Chicago area.  In December 2006, I wrote an article OSHA Saves Lives, in which some quick action by an OSHA official kept an employee from getting injured in a confined space and a trenching hazard.   What is happening out there with regards to trenching/confined spaces? 

OSHA 1926.650 is the standard for excavations.  The first thing you need is a COMPETENT PERSON.  Someone who understands everything it takes to be in compliance with the standard. 

Below are some points to be aware of, but this article does NOT make you a competent person, and does not include all aspects of the Excavation standard and the Appendixes.

• Awareness of utilities
• Means of Access and Egress
• Emergency equipment on-site
• Employee protection
• Support and protective systems
• Soil classification
• Sloping & benching
• Shoring

Like the picture above, the most common reason for a problem is the failure to use the proper support or protection, if any is used at all.  Also the failure to use and have emergency equipment on-site, such as a safety harness or breathing apparatus is also a problem.  Proper training and proper use of the RIGHT equipment can create a safe environment for your employees. 

So what do you think will happen to the guys above?  Let us know.