Excavation Access and Egress

1. When excavating, getting in and out of the trench is extremely important. Without the right access or egress, emergency situations could result in serious injuries and fatalities.

2. One of the most important tasks to complete before operations can begin is to have a competent person inspect the trench. The inspection should eliminate all hazards so employees can work safely in and around the trench.

3. If the trench is four feet deep or greater, there must be some kind of safe access and egress by a ladder, stairway, or ramp. However, it is recommended to consider access and egress at three feet deep.

4. There is a maximum distance of 25 feet to the nearest egress that has been set by OSHA. However, just because that's the maximum doesn't mean that is what is appropriate for your exit strategy. Make sure you have enough egress at the right distance for your excavation.

5. There are many requirements for ladders, including the design. Ladders must meet all OSHA and ANSI requirements for both manufacture and job-made ladders. Ladders must be secured to prevent displacement and extend three feet above excavation.

6. Always use three points of contact when using a ladder, using two hands and a foot or two feet and a hand. Your head does not count as a point of contact.

7. Ramps must be designed by a competent person and they should be uniform in thickness, designed to prevent slipping, and joined in a way to prevent tripping.

8. The type of access or egress can depend on the angle from the horizontal. Ladders should never be used when the angle from the horizontal is less than 60°. However, a stair system would be a good option between 30° - 50°. Use a ramp for anything less than 20° from horizontal.

9. Always wear your required PPE and it's recommended to wear high visibility PPE when working in and around excavations.

10. All employees have the right to Stop Work Authority. If the conditions during excavations do not seem right, or if there is a potential exposure that can lead to injuries, bring it up to your supervisor.

11. What are the hazards associated with the excavation we are going to work in today and how will we be protected?

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