Daily Trench Checks and Warning Signs

Who Checks, and When0:00

A trench can change from one day to the next, so it pays to check it before anyone goes in. Good practice is for a competent person to inspect the trench, the ground beside it and its protection every day before work, during the shift as needed, and after rain or anything else that raises the hazard. By law, the supervisor, or a competent person they appoint, must inspect the supports and the ways in and out at least once a week, or more often if needed. And each morning, it pays to pump out overnight water and check for animals.

Warning Signs0:32

Know the signs that a cave-in is likely. Cracks in the face, or in the ground beside the trench, which can form half to three-quarters of its depth back from the edge. The edge sinking, soil slumping or breaking off the face, the bottom bulging, and small pieces suddenly trickling down.

When You See One0:49

If anyone sees warning signs of a cave-in, such as the soil weakening, or a trench box shifting or settling more on one side, the safe move is to get everyone out and reassess. The law requires you to report the hazard to your supervisor or employer.

Water1:05

Any trench a worker needs to enter must be kept reasonably free of water. A good habit: watch the weather and upstream, and get out as soon as water starts rising or running in, before it cuts off your way out. Don't count on a pump to keep up with a sudden flood. Another good habit: if a pump stops, or sand bubbles up or flows in through the floor or walls, get out. Stay out until the water control and the support are checked again.

Live Sewers and Plugs1:32

Before a sewer tie-in, it's wise to confirm the line is shut off or the flow bypassed. Don't trust a closed valve or a plug alone. And never stand in front of a loaded plug to check or adjust it.

Recap1:46

To recap. Make it a habit to inspect the trench daily, and after rain. Know the warning signs: cracks, a sinking edge, soil slumping or breaking off the face, a bulging bottom, and small pieces trickling down. Get everyone out first. Then report the hazard to your supervisor. Keep the trench reasonably free of water, if workers need to enter it.