Trenching and Excavation Readiness Checklist

Before the shovel moves

OSHA's excavation requirements are in 29 CFR Part 1926, Subpart P. Read them against your actual planned depth, soil and duration rather than against a general habit.

• 811 locate requested, response received, and marks verified against plans.
• Utility marks refreshed if the ticket is aging or marks are disturbed.
• Soil type classified by a competent person; protective system selected accordingly.
• Spoil placement, traffic control and access/egress planned for the trench length.

Protective systems

• Sloping, benching, shielding or shoring selected for the classified soil and depth.
• Trench box tabulated data on site and within manufacturer limits.
• Ladders or ramps placed so no worker travels more than the required lateral distance to egress.

Daily and situational inspections

• Competent-person inspection before each shift, and again after rain, vibration or any change in conditions.
• Atmospheric testing where hazardous atmospheres are possible, including gas-line work.
• Water accumulation controls and surcharge-load distances from the trench edge.
• Documented authorization to enter, with stop-work authority stated to the crew.

After the shift

• Open excavations barricaded, plated or backfilled per plan.
• Inspection records retained with the job file.
• Near-misses recorded and briefed at the next tailgate meeting.