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The standards (OSHA
1926.650, .651, and .652) require the presence of a
COMPETENT PERSON for excavation and trenching
activities. A COMPETENT PERSON is defined as an
individual who is capable of identifying existing and
predictable hazards or working conditions that are
hazardous, unsanitary, or dangerous to employees, and
who has authorization to take prompt corrective measures
to eliminate or control these hazards and conditions. A
COMPETENT PERSON must inspect an excavation and the
areas around it daily for possible cave-ins, failures of
protective systems and equipment, hazardous atmospheres,
or other hazardous conditions. Inspections also are
required after natural events such as heavy rains. A
competent person must test any excavation deeper than 4
feet or where an oxygen deficiency or a hazardous
atmosphere is present or could reasonably be expected.
OSU Engineering Outreach provides a two day course to
provide awareness level training to employees and assist
employers in assigning competent person responsibilities
to select employees. The course consists of classroom
presentations of topics such as planning the excavation,
determination of soil types, test equipment, shoring,
shielding, sloping and benching. Emergency scene
management, rescue concerns, and working with local
emergency services are addressed.
During
the hands-on portion, a trench is properly approached
and various protective systems are installed including
mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic. All participants
experience working with the equipment and assist with
the rescue of a manikin.
Participants must provide their own protective helmet,
safety glasses, and steel toed shoes. Companies
providing the training to employees should anticipate
their policies and procedures being presented to insure
integration and compliance with OSHA standards.
This course is presented throughout the United States
during the months of May, June, and July.
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