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OSHA Trenching and Excavation Safety Checklist

Daily inspection checklist for trenching and excavation compliance with OSHA 29 CFR 1926 Subpart P

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Details
# Inspection Item Compliant Non-Compliant Corrective Action Notes
Soil Classification
1 Visual test performed (particle size, fissures, water)
2 Manual test performed (thumb, penetrometer, shearvane)
3 Soil classified (Stable Rock / A / B / C)
4 Previously disturbed soil identified
5 Layered soil conditions assessed
Protective System
6 Protective system type selected (slope/shore/shield)
7 System rated for soil type and depth
8 Sloping angle correct for soil class (if sloping)
9 Shoring installed and secured (if shoring)
10 Trench box extends above trench edge (if shielding)
11 Tabulated data or engineering design on site
Utilities and Services
12 Utility locates completed and marked
13 Locate markings visible and current
14 Hand digging within tolerance zone
15 Utility owners notified
Access and Egress
16 Ladder/stairway/ramp provided (4 ft+ depth)
17 No more than 25 ft lateral travel to egress
18 Ladder extends 3 ft above trench edge
19 Access points clear and unobstructed
Site Conditions
20 Spoil pile minimum 2 ft from edge
21 No surcharge loads near trench edge
22 Water accumulation controls in place
23 Adjacent structures assessed for stability
24 Traffic and vehicle controls in place
25 Barriers and warning signs posted
Atmospheric Testing (if required)
26 Oxygen level tested (19.5% to 23.5%)
27 Flammable gas tested (below 10% LEL)
28 Carbon monoxide tested
29 Continuous monitoring in place (if required)
30 Ventilation provided (if required)
Authorisation
31 All items compliant or corrected
32 Workers briefed on conditions
33 Competent person sign-off
34 Re-inspection scheduled if conditions change
Declaration & Sign-Off

I confirm that all items have been inspected/completed as indicated above. Any defects or concerns have been noted and reported.

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