Daily Trench Checks and Warning Signs

Who Checks, and When0:00

A trench can change from one day to the next, so it must be checked before work starts each day. By law, a competent person must inspect the trench, the ground beside it and its protection every day before work, during the shift as needed, and after every rainstorm or anything else that raises the hazard. And each morning, it pays to pump out overnight water and check for animals.

Warning Signs0:22

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 One0:40

If the competent person finds signs of a possible cave-in, such as the soil weakening, or a trench box shifting or settling more on one side, everyone exposed must be moved out until precautions make it safe. Make a habit of reporting the hazard to your supervisor or employer.

Water0:56

No one may work in a trench where water has collected or is collecting unless adequate precautions protect them, such as water removal or special support. Where pumps control the water, a competent person must watch them to make sure they work properly. 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 Plugs1:33

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. A competent person must inspect the trench before work each day, as needed during the shift, and after every rainstorm or anything else that raises the hazard. Know the warning signs: cracks, a sinking edge, soil slumping or breaking off the face, a bulging bottom, and small pieces trickling down. When they show, everyone gets out until it's made safe. Then, as a habit, report the hazard to your supervisor. Don't work in water that has collected or is collecting unless adequate precautions protect you.