702.2 - Excavation & Trenchway Policy

1. Introduction

The primary hazard associated with excavation and trenching activities is cave-in, which may result in entrapment or suffocation. Additional hazards include falls, falling loads, mobile equipment, water accumulation, hazardous atmospheres, and access/egress issues.

2. Purpose

This policy ensures compliance with OSHA and Arkansas Department of Labor requirements and establishes minimum safety standards for excavation and trenching activities at the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith.

3. Scope

This policy applies to all university excavation and trenching activities and establishes minimum requirements. Additional protections may be implemented as necessary.

4. Program Requirements

1. Evaluate surrounding hazards such as trees, rocks, buildings, and sidewalks before work begins.
2. Identify underground utilities prior to digging and notify Facilities Management and EOSH.
3. Excavations over 4 feet must comply with OSHA 29 CFR 1926 Subpart P.
4. Excavations under 5 feet may not require shoring if deemed safe by a competent person.
5. All exposed excavation walls must be protected by shoring, sloping, or equivalent methods.
6. Provide safe egress (ladders or steps) within 25 feet.
7. Excavate slopes to the angle of repose.
8. Slopes must not exceed 34 degrees unless alternate OSHA options are used.
9. Professional engineers may design alternate systems with proper documentation.
10. Follow manufacturer guidelines for support systems.
11. Remove supports safely from bottom up during backfilling.

5. Safety Considerations

1. Complete a Trenching & Excavation Checklist and Permit Form prior to work.
2. Protect employees working below others on sloped areas.
3. Ensure ramps and runways are properly designed.
4. Use reflective vests near roadways.
5. Barricade all excavation sites and maintain safe distances.
6. Do not allow employees under suspended loads.
7. Keep employees clear of loading/unloading operations.
8. Follow confined space procedures for hazardous atmospheres.
9. Complete hot work permits for welding operations.
10. Control water accumulation and use harnesses when necessary.
11. Keep materials at least 2 feet from excavation edges.
12. Require harnesses and lifelines for workers in excavations.
13. Conduct inspections daily and after weather events.

6. Training Requirements

6.1 Competent Person

Must complete at least 8 hours of initial training and 2 hours of annual refresher training.

6.2 Workers

Must complete at least 2 hours of annual training through formal or video instruction.

7. Definitions

• Angle of Repose: Maximum angle at which material remains stable.
• Benching System: Excavation method using stepped levels.
• Competent Person: Individual trained to identify hazards and take corrective action.
• Excavation: Any man-made cut or cavity in the earth.
• Shield System: Structure designed to prevent cave-ins (trench boxes).
• Shoring System: Support structure to prevent collapse.
• Sloping System: Angled excavation walls to prevent collapse.
• Trench: Narrow excavation deeper than it is wide (≤15 ft wide).