Protection from Hazards of Water Accumulation

Water can soften the walls of an excavation and substantially increase the risk of cave-ins. Unless adequate precautions are taken, employees must not work in excavations where water has accumulated or is accumulating. The precautions necessary vary with each situation but could include special support or shield systems to protect from cave-ins, water removal to control the level of accumulating water, or use of a safety harness and lifeline.

The use of water removal equipment can control or prevent the accumulation of water. A competent person must monitor water removal equipment and operations to ensure proper usage. If excavation work interrupts the natural drainage of surface water (such as streams), then diversion ditches, dikes, or other suitable means must be used to prevent surface water from entering the excavation and to provide adequate drainage of the area next to the excavation. Excavations subject to runoff from heavy rains require an inspection by a competent person and compliance with the above paragraphs.

To learn more about Trenching and Excavation visit our Trenching and Excavation Safety Online Training web page.