The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires employers to provide workers with the necessary training and instruction in order to perform their jobs safely. In addition, the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) also requires these workers to be properly trained and equipped before beginning any excavation or groundbreaking activities. The amount of training required for each position will vary depending on the type of work being done and the hazards that are present at the site. To ensure that employees are properly trained and equipped, employers should create a site-specific training program based on a risk assessment of the work site. This will ensure that employees are well-equipped to perform their jobs in a safe and effective manner.

Determine if Groundbreaking or Excavation is Required

The first step in creating an effective instruction program is to determine if groundbreaking or excavation will be required. If the work will involve either of these activities, OSHA requires that the employees receive instruction on how to perform these tasks safely. This includes proper use of shovels, buckets, and other tools, as well as the best methods for protecting themselves from potential hazards, such as tripping hazards or moving equipment. If the work will involve digging or trenching, employers must also ensure that their employees are properly trained in the safe use of trenching tools and have the proper protective equipment.If the work being performed will not require these activities, employees do not need to be trained in these tasks. However, employers should still ensure that the employees have a basic understanding of these activities.

Protection From Ground Movement

One of the biggest hazards in groundwork is ground movement. Ground movement can be caused by a variety of factors, including heavy rain, flooding, earthquakes, and other natural hazards. For this reason, OSHA requires that workers be trained in the proper methods for protecting themselves from ground movement. This includes training in the use of bracing and shoring, which are methods for preventing ground movement.If the work being performed will not involve ground movement, employees do not need to be trained in these techniques. However, employers should still ensure that the employees have a basic understanding of these methods.

Protection From Falls and Entrapment

One of the most common hazards in groundwork is falling hazards. For example, workers often dig down into the ground to install new pipelines or other conduit, or dig holes to construct outdoor storage areas. While these activities may not seem especially dangerous, they do carry the potential for falling hazards.For example, a worker could fall into an excavation if they lose their balance or trip over debris. If a worker is digging a trench, they may trip over a bucket of dirt or other items left on the ground. A worker could also fall into a hole if they are digging too close to an edge and lose their footing.Employees should be trained to recognize and avoid falling hazards. For example, workers should be taught how to use safety lines or harnesses to protect themselves from falling hazards.

Properly Using Ground Protection Equipment

If a work site includes underground utilities, employees will likely be required to use protective ground protection equipment, such as a trench box or trench shield. These tools are often used to protect workers from ground hazards, such as cave-ins or falling objects.Employees should be trained on the proper use of these tools, as well as how to avoid using them incorrectly. For example, employees should be trained on how to identify an unsafe working condition before using a trench box, such as if a utility line is in the way.Employees should also be trained on the limitations of ground protection equipment. For example, a trench box may protect employees from falling hazards, but it will not provide protection from ground movement.

Using Ground Protection Equipment Safely

Employees should also be trained on how to use ground protection equipment safely. This will ensure that the equipment is used properly and does not pose a hazard to the workers. For example, employees should be trained on how to properly close and latch a trench box before moving on to the next job. If an employee doesn't close the trench box, they may be exposed to hazards, including falling hazards.Employees should also be trained on the limitations of ground protection equipment. For example, a trench box may protect employees from falling hazards, but it will not protect them from ground movement.

Conclusion

Properly trained and equipped employees can help keep work sites safe. In addition to providing proper training, employers should also make sure that the employees have the proper tools and equipment.By taking the time to create a site-specific training program that addresses the needs of the employees, employers can help ensure that their workers are prepared for the hazards they may come across on the job. This will help reduce the number of injuries and fatalities due to accidents at work.