ground disturbance permit

Excavation and trenching operations are considered among the most hazardous construction activities, with cave-ins posing the greatest risk to workers. OSHA's Excavation standards, detailed in 29 CFR Part 1926, Subpart P, provide the safety regulations for excavation and trenching operations. [1] [2]

Key safety regulations and requirements include:

• A competent person must inspect trenches daily and as conditions change to eliminate excavation hazards.
• Trenches 5 feet or deeper require a protective system unless the excavation is made entirely in stable rock. If the trench is fewer than five feet deep, a competent person may determine a protective system is not required.
• Safe access and egress to all excavations, including ladders, steps, ramps or other safe means of exit for employees working in trench excavations four feet or deeper. These devices must be located within 25 feet of all workers.
• Keep excavated soil and other materials at least two feet from trench edges.
• Know where underground utilities are located before digging.

[2] [2] [2] [2] [2] Before starting excavation work, employers must determine the approximate locations of utility installations, including sewer, telephone, fuel, electric, and water lines. One common industry practice is to call 811, the "Call Before You Dig" number, to establish the location of any underground utility installations in the work area. [4]

Additionally, a competent person must inspect excavations subject to runoffs from heavy rains, and employers must protect workers from hazardous atmospheres inside excavations. [3] [3]