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Trenching Safety
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Trenching Safety
Introduction to Trenching Hazards

Infrastructure Health & Safety Association

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The contents of this publication are for general information only. This publication should not be
regarded or relied upon as a definitive guide to government regulations or to safety practices and
procedures. The contents of this publication were, to the best of our knowledge, current at the
time of printing. However, no representations of any kind are made with regard to the accuracy,
completeness, or sufficiency of the contents. The appropriate regulations and statutes should be
consulted. In case of any inconsistency between this document and the Occupational Health and
Safety Act or associated regulations, the legislation will always prevail. Readers should not act on
the information contained herein without seeking specific independent legal advice on their specific
circumstance. The Infrastructure Health & Safety Association is pleased to answer individual requests
for counselling and advice.

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All rights reserved. This publication may not be reproduced, in whole or in part, or
stored in any material form, without the express written permission of the copyright owner.

Revised, December 2007

Revised, January 2009
Revised, November 2010
Reprinted, April 2012
Revised, June 2015
Revised, March 2019
Revised, March 2021

978-0-919465-50-3

B
 Table of Contents
CHAPTER 1 CHAPTER 4
INTRODUCTION
OTHER HAZARDS AND
Injuries and Fatalities...................................1 SAFEGUARDS
Regulations....................................................1 Struck-by Injuries........................................ 11
Head protection.................................................. 11
CHAPTER 2
Foot protection................................................... 11
TRENCH STABILITY Eye protection..................................................... 11

Soil Type........................................................ 3 Underground Utilities................................ 11

Type 1 soil...............................................................3 Locates................................................................... 11
Type 2 soil...............................................................4 Hydro excavation............................................... 12
Type 3 soil..............................................................4 Breaks.................................................................... 13
Type 4 soil..............................................................4 Overhead Powerlines.................................13
Moisture Content.........................................4 Skin protection................................................... 15

Vibration........................................................4 Materials Handling......................................15

Surcharge.......................................................4 Pipes....................................................................... 15

Previous Excavation....................................4 Bedding material............................................... 15

Existing Foundations.................................. 5 Rigging.................................................................. 15

Weather.......................................................... 5 Housekeeping............................................. 16
Heavy Equipment.......................................17
CHAPTER 3 Equipment operators....................................... 17

PROTECTION AGAINST CAVE-INS Signallers............................................................... 17

Workers on foot................................................. 18
Sloping........................................................... 7
Hearing protection............................................ 18
Trench Boxes................................................. 8
Traffic Control............................................. 19
Shoring........................................................... 8
Confined Spaces........................................ 19
Access/Egress.............................................. 9
Respiratory protection................................... 20
Inspection...................................................... 9
Atmospheric testing........................................ 20

Hydrostatic testing........................................... 20

i
 Table of Contents
CHAPTER 5 APPENDIX B

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES REVIEW QUIZ

Introduction................................................29
Emergency Response Plan.......................21
Trench Stability..........................................29
First Aid Procedures..................................21
Protection Against Cave-ins....................29
Rescue Procedures for Cave-ins............22
Other Haards abd Safeguards............... 30
APPENDIX A

EXCAVATIONS REGULATIONS
Interpretation and Application...............23
Entry and Working Alone........................23
Soil Types....................................................23
Precautions Concerning Services..........24
Protection of Adjacent Structures.........24
General Requirements..............................24
Support Systems........................................24
Table: Excavation Shoring
and Timbering............................................27

ii Trenching Safety (M026)

 CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION

1 Introduction Trenching fatalities can also be caused by

inadvertent contact with underground services.
Around 30% of all utility-related electrical
Injuries and Fatalities incidents involve buried cable.* Before excavating,
ensure that the gas, electrical, and other services
Trenching is a high-risk work activity in Ontario. in the area are accurately located and marked.
Workers continue to be seriously injured or killed If the service poses a hazard, it must be shut off
because proper procedures were not put in place and/or disconnected.
or followed. Listed below are the main causes
of lost-time injuries in the sewer and watermain
industry that are directly related to trenching.
• Being struck by materials and equipment
falling into the trench
• Slips and falls as workers climb on and off
equipment
• Injuries while unloading, handling, and placing
pipe and other materials
• Injuries while handling and placing frames and
covers for manholes and catch basins
• Being struck by moving equipment
• Falls as workers climb in or out of an
Locate Underground Services Before Excavating
excavation
• Falling over equipment or excavated material
Regulations
• Falling into the trench
• Exposure to toxic, irritating, or flammable Supervisors and workers who
gases. are involved in excavation,
especially those in the sewer
Trenching fatalities are mainly caused by cave-ins. and watermain industry,
Death occurs by suffocation or crushing when must be familiar with the
a worker is buried by falling soil. Figure 1 shows “Excavations” section of the
some typical causes of cave-ins. Regulation for Construction
Projects (O. Reg. 213/91, Part
III, s. 222–242), which can be
found in the green book. OHSA and Regulations
It is important to understand (aka The Green Book)
the difference between
the terms “trench” and
Trenches open for extended periods may collapse due to changes in “excavation” (Figure 2).
moisture content
• An excavation is a hole left in the ground as
the result of removing material.
Vibration of Backfill is
equipment less stable • A trench is an excavation in which the depth
can than
affect undisturbed
exceeds the width.
stability soil

5'
10'

10'
Excavation Trench
Surcharge such as spoil piles put more pressure on trench walls 5'

Figure 1: Typical Causes of Cave-ins Figure 2: Difference Between Excavation and Trench

2021 Edition 1
INTRODUCTION

The excavation section of O. Reg. 213/91 defines

the various types of soils and specifies the type
of shoring and timbering to be used for each soil
type. It also spells out the requirements for trench
support systems that must be designed by a
professional engineer.

*Electrical Safety Authority. Ontario Electrical Safety

Report, 2019. p. 46.

2 Trenching Safety (M026)

 CHAPTER 2 TRENCH STABILITY

2 Trench Stability Identifying soil types requires knowledge, skill,

and experience. The foreperson or supervisor
must know about the different soil types found on
As shown in Figure 1, many factors can affect
a project and plan protection accordingly.
trench stability and cause cave-ins. Soil properties
can vary widely from the top to the bottom and This knowledge must include an awareness
along the length of a trench. that soil types and conditions can change over
very short distances. It is not unusual for soil to
Time is also a critical factor. Trenches that remain
change completely within 50 metres or for soil to
open for a long period can collapse suddenly due
become saturated with moisture over even smaller
to changes in the soil’s moisture content.
distances.
Other factors such as cracks, water, vibration,
The Construction Projects regulation (213/91) sets
weather, insufficient shoring, and previous
out four soil types. If you are unsure about the soil
excavation can affect trench stability (Figure 3).
type, have the soil tested to confirm it.
The main factors affecting trench stability are:
Type 1 soil
• Soil type
• Moisture content It is hard to drive a pick into Type 1 soil, which is
why it is often described as “hard ground to dig”.
• Vibration
In fact, the material is so hard, it is close to rock.
• Surcharge
When excavated, the sides of the excavation
• Previous excavation appear smooth and shiny. The sides will remain
• Existing foundations vertical with no water released from the trench
wall.
• Weather.
If exposed to sunlight for several days, the walls
of Type 1 soil will lose their shiny appearance but
Soil Type remain intact without cracking and crumbling. If
The type of soil determines the strength and exposed to rain or wet weather, Type 1 soil may
stability of trench walls. Even hard soil may break down along the edges of the excavation.
contain faults in seams or layers that make it Typical Type 1 soils include “hardpan,”
unstable when excavated. consolidated clay, and some glacial tills.

Rain

Vibration
Heavy Loads
Insufficient Shoring

Settling Cracks

Water Seepage
Broken Lines High Water Table

Figure 3: Factors Affecting Trench Stability

2021 Edition 3
TRENCH STABILITY

Type 2 soil air, moisture content of the soil begins to change

almost immediately, and the strength of the walls
A pick can be driven into Type 2 soil with no may be affected. The longer an excavation is open
problems. It can easily be excavated by a backhoe to the air, the greater the risk of a cave-in.
or hand-excavated with some difficulty.
In Type 2 soil, the sides of a trench will remain Vibration
vertical for a short period of time (perhaps several
Vibration from various sources can affect
hours) with no apparent tension cracks. However,
trench stability. Often trench walls are subject
if the walls are left exposed to air and sunlight,
to vibration from vehicular traffic or from
tension cracks will appear as the soil starts to dry.
construction operations such as earth moving,
The soil will begin cracking and splaying into the
compaction, pile driving, and blasting. These can
trench.
all contribute to the collapse of trench walls.
Typical Type 2 soils are silty clay and less dense
tills. Surcharge
Type 3 soil A surcharge is an excessive load or weight that
can affect trench stability. Excavated soil piled
Much of the Type 3 soil encountered in next to the trench can exert pressure on the walls.
construction is previously excavated material. Placement of spoil piles is therefore important.
Type 3 soil can be excavated without difficulty Spoil should be kept as far as is practical from the
using a hydraulic backhoe. edge of the trench.
When dry, Type 3 soil will flow through fingers Mobile equipment and other material stored close
and form a conical pile on the ground. Dry Type to the trench also add a surcharge that will affect
3 soil will not stand vertically and the sides of the trench stability. One metre from the edge to the
excavation will cave in to a natural slope of about toe of the spoil pile is the minimum distance
1 to 1, depending on moisture. required. The distance should be greater for
Wet Type 3 soil will yield water when vibrated by deeper trenches (Figure 4).
hand. When wet, this soil will stand vertically for Move spoil piles farther
a short period. It dries quickly, however, with the back for deeper trenches
vibration during excavation, causing chunks or 1m 1m 1m
solid slabs to slide into the trench.
All backfilled or previously disturbed material
should be treated as Type 3. Other typical Type 3
soil includes sand, granular materials, and silty or
wet clays.

Type 4 soil

Type 4 soil can be excavated with no difficulty

using a hydraulic backhoe. The material will flow
very easily and must be supported and contained Figure 4: Surcharge Near Trench Walls Affects Stability
to be excavated to any significant depth.
With its high moisture content, Type 4 soil is very
sensitive to vibration and other disturbances that Previous Excavation
cause the material to flow.
Typical Type 4 material includes muskeg or other Old utility trenches either crossing or running
organic deposits with high moisture content, parallel to the new trench can affect their strength
quicksand, silty clays with high moisture content, and stability (Figure 5). Soil around and between
and leda clays (i.e., quick clays). Leda clay is very these old excavations are backfilled soil, which is
sensitive to disturbance of any kind. usually less stable than undisturbed soil.
At best, this is considered Type 3 soil—loose,
Moisture Content soft, and low in internal strength. In some unusual
circumstances it may be Type 4—wet, muddy, and
The amount of moisture in the soil has a great unable to support itself. This kind of soil will not
effect on soil strength. Once a trench is dug, the stand up unless it is sloped or shored.
sides of the open excavation are exposed to the

4 Trenching Safety (M026)

 TRENCH STABILITY

Weather
Moisture affects soil stability, especially where
heavy rainfall has occurred. Rain, melting snow,
thawing earth, and overflow from adjacent
streams, storm drains, and sewers all produce
changes in soil conditions. In fact, water from any
source can reduce soil cohesion (Figure 7).
Frozen soil does not mean that you can have
Figure 5: Unstable Soil Near Old Utility Trenches reduced shoring or that a heavier load can be
supported. Frost extends to a limited depth only.

Existing Foundations
Around most trenches and excavations, there is
a failure zone where surcharges, changes in soil
condition, or other disruptions can cause collapse.
When the foundation of a building adjacent to the
trench or excavation extends into this failure zone,
the result can be a cave-in (Figure 6). Soil in this
situation is usually considered Type 3.

Existing foundations are surrounded by backfill, which may

add a surcharge load to the pressure on the trench wall.

Figure 7: Heavy Rainfall Affects Soil Stability

Figure 6: Unstable Soil Near Previous Excavations

2021 Edition 5
6 Trenching Safety (M026)
 CHAPTER 3 PROTECTION AGAINST CAVE-INS

3 Protection Against Cave-Ins For Type 4 soil, slope the walls at 1 to 3. That’s 3
m (10 ft) back for every 1 m (3.3 ft) up from the
trench bottom (Figure 10).
There are three basic methods of protecting Type 4 Soil
workers against trench cave-ins:
1. Sloping
Minimum
2. Trench boxes Bank Slope

3. Shoring

Most fatal cave-ins occur on small jobs of short

duration, such as service connections and Figure 10: Bad Soil
excavations for drains and wells. Too often, people
think that these jobs are not hazardous enough to Although sloping can reduce the risk of a cave-in,
require safeguards against collapse. the angle must be sufficient to prevent spoil not
only from sliding back but also from exerting too
much pressure on the trench wall (Figure 11).
REMEMBER
Never enter a trench deeper than 1.2 metres
(4 feet) unless it is properly sloped, shored,
or protected by a trench box.

Sloping Figure 11: Angle of Sloping Must Support Spoil Piles

One way to ensure that a trench will not collapse

Sloping is commonly used with shoring or trench
is to slope the walls. Where space and other
boxes to cut back any soil above the protected
requirements permit sloping, the angle of slope
zone. It is also good practice to cut a bench or
depends on soil conditions.
step at the top of the shoring or trench (Figure
For Type 1 and 2 soils, cut trench walls back at 12).
an angle of 1 to 1 (45 degrees). That’s one metre
back for each metre up. Walls should be sloped to
within 1.2 m (4 ft) of the trench bottom (Figure 8). Bench

Type 1 & 2 Soil

Minimum
Bank Slope

Figure 8: Good Soil Figure 12: Cut a Bench at the Top of Trench

If sloping is to be used above a trench box, the

For Type 3 soil, cut walls back at a gradient of 1 top portion of the cut should first be sloped 1 to 1
to 1 from the trench bottom (Figure 9). (or 1 to 3 for Type 4 soil). Then the box should be
lowered into the trench (Figure 13).
Type 3 Soil

Minimum
Bank Slope

Figure 9: Fairly Good Soil Figure 13: Slope Soil Above the Trench Box

2021 Edition 7
PROTECTION AGAINST CAVE-INS

Trench Boxes Shoring

Trench boxes are not usually intended to shore Shoring is a system that “shores” up or supports
up or otherwise support trench walls. They are trench walls to prevent movement of soil,
meant to protect workers in case of a cave-in. underground utilities, roadways, and foundations.
Design drawings and specifications for trench It should not be confused with trench boxes.
boxes must be signed and sealed by the A trench box provides worker safety but gives
professional engineer who designed the system little or no support to trench walls or existing
and must be kept on site by the constructor. structures such as foundations and manholes.

Boxes are normally placed in an excavated but The two types of shoring most commonly used
unshored trench and used to protect personnel. are timber and hydraulic. Both consist of posts,
A properly designed trench box is capable of wales, struts, and sheathing. Figures 15 and 16
withstanding the maximum lateral load expected identify components, dimensions, and other
at a given depth in a particular soil condition. requirements for timber shoring in some typical
Trenches near utilities, streets, and buildings may trenches. NOTE: Dimensions are only provided as
require a shoring system. an example.

As long as workers are in the trench, they should

remain inside the box. Workers must not be inside
the trench or the box when the box is being
moved. A ladder must be set up in the trench box
at all times.
Excavation should be done so that the space
between the trench box and the excavation is
minimized (Figure 14).
The two reasons for this are:
1. Allowing closer access to the top of the box
2. Limiting soil movement in case of a cave-in.

Check the drawings and specifications for the

trench box to see if the space between the box
and the trench wall needs to be backfilled and
the soil compacted.

Figure 15: Typical Timber Shoring for Type 2 Soil

Backfill
if necessary
to prevent a
cave-in

Figure 14: Keep Space Tight Between

Trench Box and Excavation

Figure 16: Typical Timber Shoring for Type 4 Soil

8 Trenching Safety (M026)

 PROTECTION AGAINST CAVE-INS

Hydraulic shoring refers to prefabricated strut Ladders must

and/or wale systems in aluminum or steel. Strictly • Be placed within the area protected by the
speaking, these may not operate hydraulically. shoring or trench box
Some are air-operated or manually jacked. Design
drawings and specifications for prefabricated • Be securely tied off at the top
shoring systems must be kept on site. • Extend above the shoring or box by at least
One major advantage of hydraulic shoring over 1 m (3 ft)
some applications of timber shoring is safety • Be inspected regularly for damage.
during installation. Workers do not have to enter
Ladders should be placed as close as possible to
the trench to install the system. Installation can
the area where personnel are working and never
be done from the top of the trench.
more than 7.5 m (25 ft) away.
Most hydraulic systems are:
Anyone climbing up or down must always face
• Light enough to be installed by one worker the ladder and maintain three-point contact. This
• Gauge-regulated to ensure even distribution means that two hands and one foot or two feet
of pressure along the trench line and one hand must be on the ladder at all times.
• Able to “pre-load” trench walls, thereby Maintaining three-point contact also means
using the soil’s natural cohesion to prevent that hands must be free for climbing. Tools and
movement. materials should not be carried up or down
ladders. Pumps, small compactors, and other
• Easily adapted to suit various trench depths equipment should be lifted and lowered by
and widths. methods that prevent injury from overexertion
Wherever possible, shoring should be installed as and falling objects.
excavation proceeds. If there is a delay between
digging and shoring, no one must be allowed to Inspection
enter the unprotected trench. All shoring should
be installed from the top down and removed from Inspection is every­one’s responsibility. Whatever
the bottom up. the protective system, it should be inspected
regularly to make sure that it remains sound and
Access/Egress reliable.
Check hydraulic shoring for leaks in hoses and
Whether they are protected by sloping, trench cylinders, bent bases, broken or cracked nipples,
boxes, or shoring, trenches must be provided with and other damaged or defective parts (Figure 18).
ladders so that workers can enter and exit safely
(Figure 17).

Figure 17: Ladders Must Be Provided for Workers to

Safely Enter or Exit a Trench
Figure 18: Check Hydraulic Shoring
for Leaks and Damaged Parts

2021 Edition 9
PROTECTION AGAINST CAVE-INS

Check timber shoring before installation. Discard Inspect trench boxes for structural damage,
damaged or defective lumber. After installation, cracks in welds, and other defects (Figure 21).
inspect wales for signs of crushing. Crushing During use, check the box regularly and often to
indicates structural inadequacy and calls for more make sure that it is not shifting or settling much
struts (Figure 19). more on one side than the other. If it is, leave the
trench and ask the supervisor to check for
Bowed sheathing Cracked sheathing stability.
and wales
Deformed Plate
Check welds on
sleeves and struts
for bends
and distortion
Loose or
missing
cleats

Inspect wales
for crushing at struts Strut off level

Figure 19: Check Timber Shoring for

Defects and Damage
Damage

Check ground surface for tension cracks which

Bent
may develop parallel to the trench at a distance Strut
one-half to three-quarters of the trench depth
(Figure 20). If cracks are detected, alert the crew Missing Strut

and check all protective systems carefully. Figure 21: Inspect Trench Boxes for
Structural Damage and Defects

Check areas adjacent to shoring where water may

Sidewall
have entered the trench. A combination of water
flow and granular soils can lead to undermining
of the trench wall. Such conditions have caused
fatalities.
Finally, make sure that tools, equipment, material,
and spoil are kept at least 1 m (3 ft) back from the
Tension
cracks Strut edge of the trench to prevent falling objects from
striking workers.

Knife edge

Figure 20: Check Ground Surface for Tension Cracks

10 Trenching Safety (M026)

 CHAPTER 4 OTHER HAZARDS AND SAFEGUARDS

4 Other Hazards and

Safeguards
The risk of a cave-in is not the only hazard in
trenching. Injuries and deaths are also related to
other major areas including:
• Struck-by injuries
• Underground utilities
• Overhead powerlines
Under the wet, muddy conditions often
• Materials handling
encountered in trenching, workers may also
• Housekeeping require rubber safety boots displaying the same
• Heavy equipment CSA logo on a triangular green patch.
• Traffic control Eye protection
• Confined spaces.
Eye protection is strongly recommended to
prevent injuries from construction operations
Struck-By Injuries such as chipping and drilling and site conditions
such as dust. At a minimum, Class 1A spectacles
Injuries from falling and flying objects can
with side protection should be worn to protect
be reduced by wearing personal protective
against flying objects. If it’s necessary to remove
equipment (PPE) such as hard hats, safety boots,
eye protection, do so in a safe location that is
and eye protection.
away from hazardous work areas.
Head protection

It is mandatory for everyone on a construction

project to wear head protection in the form
of a hard hat that complies with the current
Construction Projects regulation (213/91).
Head protection must protect the wearer’s head
against impact and small flying or falling objects
Underground Utilities
and it must be able to withstand an electrical Locates
contact equal to 20,000 volts phase-to-ground.
This means a CSA or ANSI Class E hard hat, Type Services such as gas, electrical, telephone, and
1 or Type 2. water lines—must be located by the utility before
Class E indicates electrical excavation begins (Figure 22).
protection. Type 1 and Type Request locates for all the underground utilities
2 hard hats protect the top in the area where excavation will be taking place.
of the head. Type 2 hard The contractor responsible for the work must
hats also provide protection contact the owners of any underground utilities
against side impact and that may be in that location or phone Ontario
penetration, which is why it is One Call (1-800-400-2255).
recommended for construction work. Some utilities are not part of the Ontario One
Foot protection Call system. Contact those utilities separately for
locate requests.
Everyone on a construction project must The service locate provided by the utility owner
also wear protective footwear. This means should indicate—using labelled stakes, flags,
Grade 1 safety boots certified by the Canadian and/or paint marks—the centre line of the
Standards Association (CSA) as indicated by a underground utility in the vicinity of the proposed
triangular green patch with the CSA logo. Grade excavation.
1 workboots have steel toes to protect against
falling objects and steel insoles to prevent The excavator should not work outside of the
punctures at the bottom. area covered by the locate stakeout information
without obtaining an additional stakeout.

2021 Edition 11
OTHER HAZARDS AND SAFEGUARDS

Figure 22: Locate Existing Utilities Before Excavating Figure 23: Hand Dig to Expose Utilities
Before Using Machinery

Locate stakeout accuracy should be considered

to be 1 metre on either side of the surface Centre line locates should be provided and test
centre line locate unless the locate instructions holes dug where a representative of the utility
specifically indicate other boundary limits. identifies:
Where the underground utility cannot be located a. Alignment changes
within the locate stakeout limits, the utility owner
b. Elevation changes.
should be contacted to assist with the locate.
Excavators can refer to the Ontario Regional Where an underground utility may need support
Common Ground Alliance’s (ORGCA) Best or where it may shift because of disturbance of
Practices Version 6.0 for more information. surrounding soil due to excavation, guidelines for
excavation and support should be obtained from
Mechanical excavation equipment should not
the owner of the utility.
be used within the boundary limits of the locate
without first digging a hole or holes using the Hydro excavation
procedure below to determine the underground
utility’s exact centre line and elevation. Take the following precautions for hydro
Test holes should, in general, be excavated by excavation:
one of the following methods: • Before starting work, use barricades and signs
a. Machine excavation immediately outside to inform unauthorized personnel to keep out.
the boundary limits and then hand digging • Employers must ensure that workers are
laterally until the underground utility is found properly trained on the machine they are
b. H
 and excavation perpendicular to the centre using.
line of the locate in cuts of at least 1 foot in • When exposing underground power utilities,
depth. Mechanical equipment can then be operators should use bonding mats.
used carefully to widen the hand-dug trench • Use a fall protection system when required.
to within one foot of the depth of the hand-
dug excavation. Repeat these steps until the • Keep clear of the vacuum. It is powerful and
utility is located (Figure 23). can cause serious injury or even death if you
are caught in the tube.
c. A hydro-excavation system that is acceptable
to the owner of the utility and that uses high- • Some utility owners set limits for the water
pressure water to break up the cover material pressure that can be used near their buried
and a vacuum system to remove it. (See the plan. Check with the utility owner before
next section for more information about hydro excavating.
excavation.)

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 OTHER HAZARDS AND SAFEGUARDS

Where service to a building or home has been

Additional Resources
struck, people inside should be advised to:
Excavators can refer to the following
• Leave doors and windows open.
documents for more information:
• Shut off appliances, furnaces, and other
• TSSA/ESA’s Guideline for Excavation in
sources of ignition.
the Vicinity of Utility Lines
www.tssa.org/regulated/fuels/ • Vacate the premises until the gas company
productsForSale.aspx declares it safe to return.
• ORCGA’s Best Practices Construction personnel should take these two
www.orcga.com/Publications/Best- precautions.
Practices 1.  ut out smoking materials and shut off other
P
• IHSA’s Safe Practice Guide: Excavating sources of ignition such as engines and
with Hydrovacs (SPG4) equipment.
• IHSA’s Call Before You Dig (IHSA051) 2. L
 eave the trench immediately. Gas can collect
there.

Overhead Powerlines
Safety tips for workers using or in the vicinity of
When equipment operates within reach of (and
hydro excavation:
could therefore encroach on) the minimum
• Keep away from the operation if you are not permitted distance from a live overhead
directly involved in the work. powerline (Table 1), the constructor must have
• Wear hearing protection if working in vicinity written procedures in place to prevent this.
of the hydrovac truck. Table 1: Minimum Distances to Overhead Powerlines
• Be aware of the hazards, such as slips from
the runoff water and ice during the winter. Voltage Rating of Powerline Minimum Distance
• Wear appropriate eye and face protection 750 or more volts, but not
3 m (10 ft)
such as safety glasses and faceshields. They more than 150,000 volts
will protect you from getting any airborne More than 150,000, but not
debris (caused by splashing) in your eyes. 4.5 m (15 ft)
more than 250,000 volts
• Keep clear of the vacuum. It is powerful and More than 250,000 volts 6 m (20 ft)
can cause serious injury or even death if you
are caught in the tube. Source: O. Reg. 213/91, s. 188

Breaks If equipment touches a high-voltage line, the

operator should take the following precautions:
Breaks in electrical, gas, and water services can
1.  tay on the machine. Don’t touch equipment
S
cause serious injuries, even deaths.
and ground at same time. Touching anything
• Hitting an underground electrical line can in contact with the ground could be fatal.
result in electrocution, while hitting a gas line
2. K
 eep others away. Warn them not to touch
can cause an explosion.
the load, load lines, boom, bucket, or any
• A broken waterline can release a sudden rush other part of the equipment (Figure 24).
of water, washing out support systems and
3. A
 nyone operating accessory equipment
causing a cave-in.
should remain on that equipment. They should
• Cutting telephone lines can create a serious also avoid making contact with the ground
problem if emergency calls for police, fire, or and the equipment at the same time.
ambulance are required.
4. G
 et someone to call the local utility to shut off
In the event of gas line contact, call the gas power.
company immediately. The company will check
the line and close down the supply if necessary. WARNING
Beware of time relays. Even after breakers
If a leak is suspected, people in the immediate
are tripped by line damage, relays may be
area should be told to evacuate. triggered to restore power.

2021 Edition 13
OTHER HAZARDS AND SAFEGUARDS

8. J
 ump with feet together and shuffle away in
small steps. Don’t take big steps. With voltage
differential across the ground, one foot may
be in a higher voltage area than the other. The
difference can kill you (Figure 26).

Figure 24: Stay Clear of Machinery

During a Powerline Contact

5. If possible, the operator (while remaining on

the machine) can try to break contact by
moving the machine clear of the wires.
The ground closest to the machine
6. If the operator can’t break contact by moving will have the highest voltage
the machine—while remaining on it—do not
move the machine until the utility shuts down Figure 26: Voltage Differential Across
the line and confirms that power is off. the Ground Can Kill You

7. If an emergency such as fire forces you

to leave the machine, jump clear (Figure Special precautions are required for casualties in
25). Never step down. If part of your body contact with live powerlines or equipment.
contacts the ground while another part
touches the machine, current will travel 1. Never touch the casualty or anything in
through you. contact with the casualty.
2. If possible, break contact. Use a dry board,
rubber hose, or dry polypropylene rope to
move either the casualty or the line. An object
can sometimes be thrown to separate the
casualty from the wire.

WARNING
Touching the casualty, even with dry wood or
rubber, can be dangerous. With high voltage
lines, objects that are normally insulators can
become conductors.

3. Call emergency services—in most cases

ambulance, fire department, and utility.
4. Provide first aid once the casualty is free of
contact. If the casualty is not breathing, begin
artificial respiration immediately (mouth-to-
mouth is most efficient) or CPR. Apply cold
water to burns and cover with clean dressing.
Figure 25: Jump Clear of Machinery
—Do Not Step Down

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 OTHER HAZARDS AND SAFEGUARDS

Skin protection

Those who work close to energized overhead

powerlines may be exposed to an arc flash
hazard. Workers who are exposed to this hazard
should always wear clothing that provides for
some level of arc-flash protection.
Clothing made of synthetic fibres can be readily
ignited by arc flash and melt to the workers’ skin.
Cotton or wool fabrics are more flame-retardant
and are therefore recommended as outerwear
and inner-wear for work clothes.
Protection from an arc flash is also afforded by
protective clothing and equipment such as Figure 27: For Balance, Keep One Foot Ahead
of the Other When Homing Pipe
• Arc-rated clothing
• Flame-resistant eye protection (including an
arc-rated face shield)
• Electrical-insulating rubber gloves and leather
protectors.

Materials Handling
Many lost-time injuries in trenching involve
materials handling. Moving rock and soil, lifting Figure 28: Use Pipe Pullers When
pipe and manhole sections, laying down bedding Positioning Large Pipes
material, or lowering pumps and compactors into
the trench can all be hazardous. Bedding material

Pipes Personnel shovelling bedding material in the

trench are usually working in a confined area
Trucks should always be on level ground when where footing is muddy and uneven. The result
pipe is unloaded. Pipe should be chocked or can be overexertion or slips and falls leading to
staked before tie-downs are released. These back and other injuries.
measures will reduce the risk of sections rolling
off the truck. Mechanical equipment can significantly reduce
this hazard. For instance, bedding material can
Plastic and small diameter pipe is often banded be put in the excavator bucket with a front-
with metal straps. Be careful cutting the straps. end loader, then spread evenly along the trench
They are under tension and can fly back and hit bottom.
you.
Personnel often injure fingers and hands when Rigging
laying and joining sections of pipe. While sections Rigging is essential to safe, efficient materials
are suspended from hoisting equipment, keep handling since pipe, manhole sections, and
hands away from slings or chokers in tension. equipment are lowered into the trench by cranes
When guiding and pushing sections together by or other hoisting devices. Rigging these loads
hand, never curl fingers around ends or flanges. properly can prevent injury.
As pipe is placed along the trench, each section • Wherever possible, lower loads on adequate
should be blocked or set so that it cannot roll and blockage to prevent damage to slings.
cause injury.
• Keep hands away from pinch points when
Back injuries can occur when small-diameter pipe slack is being taken up.
is being homed into position (Figure 27). Workers
pushing the bar should place their feet directly in • Stand clear while the load is being lifted and
front of the pipe with one foot ahead of the other. lowered or when slings are being pulled out
from under it.
Large-diameter pipe should be placed with pipe
pullers (Figure 28). • Use tag lines to control swinging, swaying, or
other unwanted movement of the load.

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OTHER HAZARDS AND SAFEGUARDS

Inspect slings and rigging hardware regularly and Remember:

replace any damaged or worn devices. • At least three clips are required for wire rope
Nylon web slings—With nylon slings, damage up to 5/8” diameter. Four clips are required
is usually easy to spot: cuts, holes, tears, worn for wire rope greater than 5/8” diameter up to
or distorted fittings, frayed material, broken and including 7/8” diameter.
stitching, or heat burns. Damaged web slings • Avoid binding the eye section of wire rope
should be replaced. slings around corners. The bend will weaken
Wire rope slings—When using wire rope slings, the splice or swaging.
inspect for broken wires, worn or cracked • When using choker hitches, do not force the
fittings, loose seizings and splices, flatening, and eye down towards the load once tension is
corrosion. Knots or kinks indicate that wire rope applied.
slings are permanently damaged and should
not be used. Damage most often occurs around • Do not leave wire rope lying on the ground for
thimbles and fittings. any length of time in damp or wet conditions.
Follow these steps when installing wire rope clips: Chain slings—When using chain slings, inspect for
elongated links. A badly stretched link tends to
Step 1: Apply First Clip close up and elongate (Figure 29).
• Apply first clip one base width from dead end
of wire rope.
• Place U-bolt over dead end. Live end rests in
clip saddle.
• Turn nuts firmly. DO NOT TIGHTEN. Stretched
link tends
to close
up and
elongate

Step 2: Apply Second Clip New link

• Apply second clip as close to loop as possible.

Figure 29: Inspect Links for Stretching
• Turn nuts firmly. DO NOT TIGHTEN.

Look for bent, twisted, or damaged links that can

result when chain has been used to lift a load with
unprotected sharp edges.
Inspect for cracks. Although sometimes hard
Step 3: Apply All Other Clips
to detect, cracks always indicate that the chain
• Apply all other clips spaced evenly between should be removed from service. Also look for
the first and second clip. gouges, chips, cuts, dents, peen marks, and
corrosive wear at points where links bear on each
other.

Housekeeping
Maintaining good housekeeping practices is
Step 4: Apply Tension
important both at ground level and in the trench.
• Apply tension for intended and tighten At the top of the trench, sections of pipe, unused
all nuts to recommended torque (as per tools and timber, piles of spoil, and other material
manufacturer’s instructions). must be kept at least 1 m (3 ft) away from the
• Check nut torque after rope has been in edge.
operation. The slips and falls common on excavation
projects can be reduced by cleaning up scrap and
debris. Trenches should also be kept as dry as
possible. Pumps may be required.

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 OTHER HAZARDS AND SAFEGUARDS

Proper housekeeping is especially important Operators have also suffered serious injuries
around ladders. The base and foot of the ladder when equipment overturns because of improper
should be free of garbage and puddles. Ladders loading on floats, inadvertently backing into
should be secured at the top and bottom, placed excavations, or soil failure near excavations
in protected areas, and inspected regularly for (Figure 32).
damage (Figure 30).

Figure 32: Pushing (Instead of Dumping) Backfill

Can Prevent Equipment from Overturning

Back-up alarms are required on dump trucks and

recommended for all heavy equipment to prevent
incidents when operators are moving equipment
around a site. Where vehicles have to operate
in reverse, warning signs must be conspicuously
posted.
In heavily travelled or congested work areas, a
signaller may be necessary to direct equipment
Figure 30: Secure Ladder at Top and Bottom and prevent injuries and deaths caused by
vehicles backing up.
Heavy Equipment
GROUND RULES FOR EQUIPMENT OPERATORS
Excavators, backhoes, and other heavy equipment • Understand and obey the signaller at all times.
can cause injuries and fatalities to equipment
operators, signallers, and personnel on foot. • Remain in the cab where possible.
• Ensure that mirrors are clean, functional, and
Equipment operators properly adjusted.
• Do a circle check after being away from the
Improperly climbing on and off heavy equipment
vehicle for any length of time. (Walk around to
has caused many injuries to equipment operators. ensure the area is clear before moving.)
The best prevention is to maintain three-point
contact. Equipment should be fitted with steps, • Stop immediately when a signaller, worker, or
anyone else disappears from view.
grabs, and rails that are repaired or replaced
when damaged (Figure 31).
Signallers

Signallers are required by law if:

• The operator’s view of the intended path of
travel is obstructed, or
• A person could be endangered by the moving
equipment or its load.
Equipment operators and signallers must be able
to communicate clearly with each other, either
by means of a telecommunication system or
prearranged visual signals that are clearly visible
Figure 31: Maintain Three-point Contact to the operator.

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OTHER HAZARDS AND SAFEGUARDS

Use the excavator hand signals shown in Figure Workers on foot are also injured and killed by
33. Pocket-sized cards containing these hand equipment backing up.
signals are available to order from IHSA
(Excavator Hand Signal Cards (V015)). GROUND RULES FOR WORKERS ON FOOT
• Beware of common operator blind spots.
(See Chapter 28: Backing Up.)
• Stay alert to the location of equipment around
you.
• Avoid entering or standing in blind spots.
• Always remain visible to the operator. Make
eye contact to ensure that you are seen.
• Never stand behind a backing vehicle.
• Remember—the operator may be able to see
you while you are standing but not when you
kneel down or bend over

Hearing protection

Workers who are exposed for long periods to

noisy equipment should wear hearing protection.
Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is the most
common occupational disease suffered by
construction workers in Ontario. It often happens
gradually, so workers may not realize that loud
noise from their job is damaging their hearing.
By the time they do realize it, it’s too late—the
damage is permanent and can’t be reversed.
Exposure to excessive noise can also cause
a disease called tinnitus, which is a constant
ringing in the ears. In addition, the stress of being
Figure 33: Excavator Hand Signals exposed to loud noise can cause high blood
pressure and fatigue.
The Noise regulation (O. Reg. 381) requires
GROUND RULES FOR SIGNALLERS employers to identify noise hazards in the
• Wear a fluorescent or bright orange workplace and take steps to protect workers from
safety vest. (Note: other colours listed in the overexposure. It sets out a time-weighted average
CSA standard may be acceptable. See Chapter limit of 85 dBA of noise exposure over an 8-hour
17: High-Visibility Clothing.) shift (dBA stands for decibels, which is a unit that
• Use standard hand signals (Figure 33). measures the intensity of sound).
• Stand where you can see and be seen. If workers are exposed to levels above 85 dBA,
• Stay in full view of the operator and the the employer must consider ways to control noise
intended path of travel. at the source or along the path such as:
• Know where the operator’s blind spots are. • Renting or purchasing quieter equipment.
• Warn other workers to stay clear of • Ensuring proper maintenance of equipment,
equipment. which can reduce the amount of noise
• Turning equipment off when it’s not needed
Workers on foot • Setting up the workspace farther away from
Personnel on foot are frequently stuck by sources of loud noise
machine attachments such as excavator buckets • Blocking noise from reaching workers by
and bulldozer blades when they stand or work closing doors, working around corners, etc.
too close to operating equipment, especially • Using sound-absorbing material to reduce
during unloading and excavation. noise levels.

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 OTHER HAZARDS AND SAFEGUARDS

A TCP must be a competent worker, wear a

If it is not possible to control noise at the source
fluorescent or bright orange safety vest, and not
or along the path, the employer can consider
perform any other work while directing traffic.
using PPE such as hearing protection devices
(HPDs) to control noise at the worker (Figure For more information on TCPs, order or download
34). IHSA’s Handbook for Traffic Control Persons
(B016), which is also available in French (B016F).
Pre- Custom- Semi-
Foam
Earplugs
moulded Earmuffs
Formable
Earplugs
Moulded insert To help TCPs communicate, IHSA has a pocket-
Earplugs Earplugs Earplugs
sized Traffic Control Hand Signals Card (V006) to
ensure that everyone is using and understands
the same signals on the jobsite (Figure 36).

Figure 34: Types of Hearing Protection Devices

Traffic Control
On trenching projects along public roadways,
the construction crew must be protected from
traffic. Regulations specify the following methods
for protecting personnel:
• Traffic control persons (TCPs) using signs Figure 36: Traffic Control Handsignals (V006)
• Warning signs
• Barriers Confined Spaces
• Lane control devices A confined space is defined as a place:
• Flashing lights or flares. 1. That is partially or fully enclosed
Supervisors must ensure that TCPs have received 2. T
 hat is not both designed and constructed for
adequate training. Training must include the continuous human occupancy, and
proper use of the STOP/SLOW sign, how to
signal, how to communicate with other TCPs, and 3. W
 here atmospheric hazards may occur
where to stand (Figure 35). because of its construction, location, or
contents, or because of work that is done in it.
Supervisors must also give TCPs written
instructions in a language they can understand. All three criteria have to be met before a space is
They must instruct them on the nature of the defined as a confined space.
project, the hazards present on site, the signals In the sewer and watermain industry, confined
that will be used, where construction equipment spaces can be locations such as excavations,
will be operating, and how public traffic will flow. manholes, valve chambers, pump stations, and
catch basins. The atmosphere in these spaces
may be
• Toxic
• Oxygen-deficient
work area work area • Oxygen-enriched
• Explosive.
Sewage not only smells bad but can create
dangerous atmospheres. Decaying waste releases
5 – 30 m hazardous gases such as hydrogen sulfide and
5 – 30 m
from first cone
of transition taper
from first cone
of transition taper methane. The bacteria in sewage are not only a
source of infection but can also consume oxygen
and leave the atmosphere oxygen-deficient.
Figure 35: Typical Arrangement for TCPs

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OTHER HAZARDS AND SAFEGUARDS

Other sources of contamination can include Atmospheric testing

• Fumes from welding or patching compounds Protecting the health and safety of personnel in a
• Chemicals from waste disposal sites confined space starts with some basic steps:
• Engine exhaust • A competent worker must test a confined
• Propane or other explosive gases that are space to determine whether it is hazard-free
heavier than air and collect in the bottom of before a worker enters, and continue testing
the trench to ensure that it remains hazard-free.

• Leaks from underground storage tanks • Where tests indicate safe air quality, workers
may be allowed to enter the confined space.
• Decomposing material in landfill sites.
• Where tests indicate a hazardous level of
Respiratory protection fumes, vapours, gases, or oxygen, entry must
not be allowed until the space has been
Working in confined spaces may require adequately ventilated and subsequent tests
respiratory protection against hazardous indicate that the air is safe to breathe.
atmospheres. PPE such as a powered air purifying
• Where possible, mechanical venting should be
respirator or a supplied-air respirator may be
continued in any confined space containing
required (Figure 37).
hazardous levels of fumes, vapours, gases, or
A worker who needs to wear a respirator must oxygen, even after venting has corrected the
be trained in its care and use. A fit test must be hazard. The space must also be continuously
carried out before the worker uses a tight-fitting monitored while personnel are working there.
respirator for the first time. In addition, a seal
• In situations where ventilation has removed a
check must be performed each time the worker
hazard, workers entering the space should still
puts on a tight-fitting respirator.
wear rescue harnesses attached to individual
For more information on confined spaces and lifelines. A worker should also be posted at
respiratory protection, see the chapters on these the entrance and be prepared, equipped, and
topics in IHSA’s Construction Health and Safety trained to provide rescue in an emergency.
Manual (M029). For rescue situations, workers entering the
space should wear supplied-air respirators.
Air-Purifying Respirators Supplied-Air Respirator
Hydrostatic testing

Hydrostatic testing involves entering a confined

space such as a manhole or valve chamber.
Testing new lines can be very hazardous if
components break or plugs let go. For that
reason, additional precautions are required:
• When testing watermains, ensure that all
lines, elbows, and valves are supported and
equipped with thrust blocks. Otherwise the
line could come apart under test pressure.
Full-Facepiece
Respirator • Arrange watermain testing so that lines are
pressurized when no one is in the manhole or
valve chamber.
• For sewer line testing, all requirements for
entering confined spaces apply.
• Ensure that plugs are secure. No one should
be in a manhole when the upstream line
is being filled. Plugs that are not properly
installed can let go, causing injury and letting
the manhole fill quickly.
Powered Air Purifying Self-Contained Breathing
Respirator Apparatus (SCBA) Flooding is another reason why no one should
be in a manhole without a rescue harness and a
Figure 37: Types of Respirators worker outside who is ready for an emergency.

20 Trenching Safety (M026)

 CHAPTER 5 EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

5 Emergency Procedures First Aid Procedures

All projects must have a person qualified
An emergency is an unplanned event that has the
and certified to provide first aid. First aid is
potential to:
emergency help given to an injured or suddenly ill
• Harm the life, health, or safety of a person person using readily available materials.
• Damage public property Prompt and correct treatment of injuries not only
• Damage the environment. reduces pain and suffering but can also saves
lives. The objectives of first aid are to:
Ontario’s Construction Projects regulation • Preserve life
(213/91) requires the constructor to:
• Prevent the injury or illness from becoming
• Establish written emergency procedures at worse
the project and ensure they are followed.
• Promote recovery.
• Ensure the procedures are posted in a
conspicuous place at the project. Employers must provide and maintain a first aid
• Ensure that every worker at the project has station in the workplace. Pick a location for the
ready access to a telephone or other system kit that it is accessible at all times. The contents
of two-way communication. will vary according to the number of employees
regularly employed at the workplace.
The type and location of all emergency Learning first aid, CPR, and how to use an
communication systems must be posted on the AED can help you save a life. Knowing how
project. Emergency phone numbers and the site recognize the signs of someone who is in distress
address/location should be posted beside all site from a heart attack, stroke, or choking, for
phones and in the field office for quick reference. example, can help you get them the treatment
IHSA’s Emergency Response Poster (P103) can be they need quickly. In those cases where every
used to display this information (Figure 38). second counts, prompt treatment can mean
the difference between loss of life, life-long
impairment, or a full recovery.
If you suspect someone is having a heart attack,
look for the four Ps:
1.  ain – a continuous pain in the chest that may
P
spread to the jaw, neck, or arms.
2. Pale skin
3. Pulse is rapid and weak
4. Perspiration
Figure 38: Emergency Response Poster The signs and symptoms of a stroke vary
depending on what part of the brain has been
Emergency Response Plan affected. Usually the symptoms show up on one
side of the body.
Every construction project needs an emergency
If you suspect a stroke, think FAST:
response plan before work begins so that
everyone is prepared in case of an emergency. A F – Facial droop. Ask the person to smile and
quick and efficient response to an emergency will: watch the corners of their mouth.
• Prevent the situation from getting worse A – Arm Drift. Have the person hold out both
arms in front of them and see if one arm drifts
• Protect workers and the public from further
back down or can’t move at all.
danger and injury
S – Speech. Check if the person slurs their words,
• Provide first aid to injured workers
says the wrong words, or is able to speak at all.
• Protect material and equipment from further
T – Time. Get medical help immediately. The
damage
earlier a stroke is treated, the better the chance
• Isolate and secure the area to ensure that of survival and recovery.
nothing is disturbed.

2021 Edition 21
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

If someone is seriously injured, take the following Breathing—Ensure that the casualty is breathing.
steps: If not, open the airway and start artificial
1. Protect the area from hazards. respiration immediately. Mouth-to-mouth is the
most efficient method.
2. Prevent further injury to the casualty.
Bleeding—Control external bleeding by applying
3. Administer first aid. direct pressure, placing the casualty in a
4. Call an ambulance or rescue unit. comfortable position, and elevating the injured
part if possible.
5. H
 ave someone direct the ambulance or rescue
unit to the accident scene. Unconsciousness—This is a priority because it
may lead to breathing problems. An unconscious
person may suffocate when left lying face up. If
Rescue Procedures for Cave-ins
injuries permit, unconscious persons who must be
It is natural to try to rescue casualties caught in left unattended should be placed in the recovery
or buried by a cave-in. But care must be taken position (Figure 39).
to prevent injury and death to rescuers, whether
from a further cave-in or other hazards.
The following procedures may be suitable,
depending on conditions.
1. To get down to the casualty, use a tarpaulin,
fencing, plywood, or similar material that can
cover the ground and will ride up over any
further cave-in.
2. S
 ometimes a further cave-in can be prevented
by placing a backhoe bucket against the Figure 39: Recovery Position
suspected area or excavating it.
3. R
 escue workers should enter the trench with
ropes and wear rescue harnesses if possible.
4. T
 o prevent further injury, remove the casualty
by stretcher whenever possible. Tarps or
ladders can be used as a makeshift stretcher.
5. Stabilize the casualty.

22 Trenching Safety (M026)

 APPENDIX A EXCAVATIONS REGULATIONS

A Excavations Regulations (b) has a low natural moisture content and

a high degree of internal strength;
Part III of the Construction Projects regulation (c) has no signs of water seepage; and
(O. Reg. 213/91, s. 222–242) under Ontario’s (d) can be excavated only by mechanical
Occupational Health and Safety Act. January equipment.
2020 edition. Last amendment: 327/19.
(3) Type 2 soil,
Interpretation and Application (a) is very stiff, dense and can be
penetrated with moderate difficulty by
222. In this Part, a small sharp object;
“engineered support system” means an (b) has a low to medium natural moisture
excavation or trench shoring system, designed content and a medium degree of
for a specific project or location, assembled in internal strength; and
place and which cannot be moved as a unit;
(c) has a damp appearance after it is
“hydraulic support system” means a system excavated.
capable of being moved as a unit, designed
to resist the pressure from the walls of (4) Type 3 soil is,
an excavation by applying a hydraulic (a) previously excavated soil; or
counterpressure through the struts; (b) soil that is stiff to firm or compact to
“prefabricated support system” means a loose in consistency and has one or
trench box, trench shield or similar structure, more of the following characteristics:
composed of members connected to each (i) It exhibits signs of surface cracking.
other and capable of being moved as a unit,
and designed to resist the pressure from the (ii) It exhibits signs of water seepage.
walls of an excavation but does not include a (iii) If it is dry, it may run easily into a
hydraulic support system; well-defined conical pile.
“pressure”, in relation to a wall of an (iv) It has a low degree of internal
excavation, means the lateral pressure of the strength.
earth on the wall calculated in accordance
(5) Type 4 soil,
with generally accepted engineering principles
and includes hydrostatic pressure and (a) is soft to very soft and very loose in
pressure due to surcharge. consistency, very sensitive and upon
disturbance is significantly reduced in
223. This Part applies to all excavating and
natural strength;
trenching operations.
(b) runs easily or flows, unless it is
Entry and Working Alone completely supported before
excavating procedures;
224. No person shall enter or be permitted to
(c) has almost no internal strength;
enter an excavation that does not comply
with this Part. (d) is wet or muddy; and
225. Work shall not be performed in a trench (e) exerts substantial fluid pressure on its
unless another worker is working above supporting system.
ground in close proximity to the trench or to 227. (1) The type of soil in which an excavation is
the means of access to it. made shall be determined by visual and
physical examination of the soil,
Soil Types
(a) at the walls of the excavation; and
226. (1) For the purposes of this Part, soil shall be (b) within a horizontal distance from
classified as Type 1, 2, 3 or 4 in accordance each wall equal to the depth of the
with the descriptions set out in this excavation measured away from the
section. excavation.
(2) Type 1 soil, (2) The soil in which an excavation is made
(a) is hard, very dense and only able to be shall be classified as the type described
penetrated with difficulty by a small in section 226 that the soil most closely
sharp object; resembles.

2021 Edition 23
EXCAVATIONS REGULATIONS

(3) If an excavation contains more than one (2) The walls of an excavation cut in rock shall
type of soil, the soil shall be classified be supported by rock anchors or wire
as the type with the highest number as mesh if support is necessary to prevent
described in section 226 among the types the spalling of loose rock.
present. 233. (1) A level area extending at least one metre
from the upper edge of each wall of an
Precautions Concerning Services excavation shall be kept clear of equipment,
228. (1) Before an excavation is begun, excavated soil, rock and construction material.

(a) the employer excavating shall ensure (2) The stability of a wall of an excavation
that all gas, electrical and other shall be maintained where it may be
services in and near the area to be affected by stockpiling excavated soil or
excavated are located and marked; rock or construction materials.

(b) the employer and worker locating (3) No person shall operate a vehicle or other
and marking the services described in machine and no vehicle or other machine
clause (a) shall ensure that they are shall be located in such a way as to affect
accurately located and marked; and the stability of a wall of an excavation.

(c) if a service may pose a hazard, (4) If a person could fall into an excavation
the service shall be shut off and that is more than 2.4 metres deep, a
disconnected. barrier at least 1.1 metres high shall be
provided at the top of every wall of the
(2) If a service may pose a hazard and it excavation that is not sloped as described
cannot be shut off or disconnected, the in clauses 234 (2) (e), (f) and (g).
owner of the service shall be requested
to supervise the uncovering of the service Support Systems
during the excavation.
(3) Pipes, conduits and cables for gas, 234. (1) The walls of an excavation shall be
electrical and other services in an supported by a support system that
excavation shall be supported to prevent complies with sections 235, 236, 237, 238,
their failure or breakage. 239 and 241.
(2) Subsection (1) does not apply with respect
Protection of Adjacent Structures to an excavation,

229. (1) If an excavation may affect the stability (a) that is less than 1.2 metres deep;
of an adjacent building or structure, the (b) that no worker is required to enter;
constructor shall take precautions to
(c) that is not a trench and with respect
prevent damage to the adjacent building
to which no worker is required to be
or structure.
closer to a wall than the height of the
(2) A professional engineer shall specify in wall;
writing the precautions required under
(d) that is cut in sound and stable rock;
subsection (1).
(e) made in Type 1 or Type 2 soil and
(3) Such precautions as the professional
whose walls are sloped to 1.2 metres
engineer specifies shall be taken.
or less from its bottom with a slope
having a minimum gradient of one
General Requirements vertical to one horizontal;
230. Every excavation that a worker may be (f) made in Type 3 soil and whose walls
required to enter shall be kept reasonably free are sloped from its bottom with a
of water. slope having a minimum gradient of
231. An excavation in which a worker may work one vertical to one horizontal;
shall have a clear work space of at least 450 (g) made in Type 4 soil and whose walls
millimetres between the wall of the excavation are sloped from its bottom with a
and any formwork or masonry or similar wall. slope having a minimum gradient of
232. (1) The walls of an excavation shall be one vertical to three horizontal; or
stripped of loose rock or other material
that may slide, roll or fall upon a worker.

24 Trenching Safety (M026)

 EXCAVATIONS REGULATIONS

(h) that is not a trench and is not made in be constructed, installed, used and
Type 4 soil and with respect to which maintained in accordance with its design
a professional engineer has given a drawings and specifications.
written opinion that the walls of the (3) The design drawings and specifications for
excavation are sufficiently stable that a prefabricated, hydraulic or an engineered
no worker will be endangered if no support system,
support system is used.
(a) shall indicate the size of the system
(3) The opinion in clause (2) (h) shall include and the type and grade of materials of
details of, which it is to be made;
(a) the specific project and the location (b) shall indicate the maximum depth
thereon; and the types of soil for which it is
(b) any specific condition for which the designed;
opinion applies; and (c) shall indicate the proper positioning of
(c) the frequency of inspections. the system in the excavation, including
(4) The constructor shall keep on the project the maximum allowable clearance
a copy of every opinion given by a between the walls of the support
professional engineer for the purpose system and the walls of the excavation;
of clause (2) (h) while the project is in and
progress. (d) shall indicate how to install and
(5) The professional engineer who gives an remove the system.
opinion described in clause (2) (h), or a (e) Revoked:
competent worker designated by him or (4) In addition to the requirements of
her, shall inspect the excavation to which subsection (3), the design drawings and
the opinion relates as frequently as the specifications for a hydraulic support
opinion specifies. system,
235. (1) Subject to subsection (2), a support (a) shall indicate the minimum working
system shall consist of, pressure required for the system; and
(a) timbering and shoring that meets the (b) shall require the use of a device to
requirements of subsection 238 (2), if ensure the protection of workers if a
no hydrostatic pressure is present in loss of hydraulic pressure occurs in the
the soil, and if the width and depth of system.
the excavation are equal to or less than
the width and depth indicated in the (5) Before a variation from the design
Table to section 238; drawings and specifications for a
prefabricated, hydraulic or an engineered
(b) a prefabricated support system that support system is permitted, the variation
complies with sections 236 and 237; shall be approved in writing by a
(c) a hydraulic support system that professional engineer.
complies with sections 236 and 237; or (6) If the soil conditions on a project differ
(d) an engineered support system that from those assumed by the professional
complies with section 236. engineer in designing a prefabricated,
(2) Where the excavation is a trench and the hydraulic or an engineered support
depth exceeds six metres or the width system, a professional engineer shall
exceeds 3.6 metres, the support system modify the design drawings and
shall consist of an engineered support specifications for the actual soil conditions
system designed for the specific location or shall approve the support system for
and project. use in the actual soil conditions.

236. (1) Every prefabricated, hydraulic or (7) The constructor shall keep the design
engineered support system shall be drawings and specifications for a
designed by a professional engineer. prefabricated, hydraulic or an engineered
support system at a project while the
(2) Every prefabricated, hydraulic or system is on the project.
engineered support system shall
(8) Revoked:

2021 Edition 25
EXCAVATIONS REGULATIONS

237. (1) Subject to subsection (2), (2) Timbering and shoring referred to in
clause 235 (1) (a) for the walls of an
(a) no prefabricated or hydraulic support
excavation with a depth described in
system shall be used in type 4 soil;
Column 1 of the Table to this section
(b) the space between the walls of a and located in a soil type described in
prefabricated support system and Column 2 of the Table shall meet the
the walls of the excavation shall be corresponding specifications set out in
restricted to the minimum clearance Columns 3 to 8 of the Table.
required for the forward progression of
(3) Every piece of sheathing referred to in
the support system; and
the Table to this section shall be made of
(c) the walls of a hydraulic support system sound Number 1 Grade spruce and,
shall touch the walls of the excavation.
(a) shall be placed against the side of the
(2) A prefabricated or hydraulic support excavation so that it is vertical;
system may be used for repairing
(b) shall be secured in place by wales; and
underground pipe breaks if the system,
(c) shall be driven into the soil and firmly
(a) meets the requirements of section 236;
secured in place if the excavation is
(b) has four side walls; made in Type 3 or 4 soil.
(c) is designed for a maximum depth of (4) Every strut referred to in the Table to this
3.6 metres; section shall be made of sound number 1
(d) is not used at a greater depth than 3.6 structural grade spruce and,
metres; (a) shall be placed in the excavation so
(e) is designed to resist all hydrostatic and that it is horizontal and at right angles
earth pressures found in type 3 and to the wales;
type 4 soils; (b) shall be cut to the proper length and
(f) is installed so as to extend to the held in place by at least two wedges
bottom of the excavation; driven between the strut and the
wales; and
(g) is installed so that the walls of
the system touch the walls of the (c) shall be cleated with cleats that extend
excavation; and over the top of the strut and rest on
the wales or that are attached securely
(h) is not pulled forward after being to the wales by spikes or bolts.
installed in the excavation.
(5) Every wale referred to in the Table to this
(3) Before a support system is used section shall be made of sound number 1
as described in subsection (2), the structural grade spruce and,
constructor shall submit two copies of its
design drawings and specifications to the (a) shall be placed in the excavation so
office of the Ministry of Labour nearest to that it is parallel to the bottom, or
the project. proposed bottom, of the excavation;
and
238. (1) In this section,
(b) shall be supported by either cleats
“cleat” means a member of shoring that secured to the sheathing or posts set
directly resists the downward movement of a on the wale next below it or, if it is
wale or strut; the lowest wale, on the bottom of the
“o/c” means the maximum distance measured excavation.
from the centre of one member of sheathing, 239. (1) A support system for the walls of an
wale or strut to the centre of the adjacent excavation shall be installed,
member of sheathing, wale or strut;
(a) progressively in an excavation in Type
“post” means a vertical member of shoring 1, 2 or 3 soil; and
that acts as a spacer between the wales;
(b) in advance of an excavation in Type 4
“10 millimetres gap” means that the space soil, if practicable.
between two adjacent members of sheathing
is a maximum of ten millimetres. (2) A support system for the walls of an
excavation shall provide continuous
support for it.

26 Trenching Safety (M026)

 EXCAVATIONS REGULATIONS

TABLE: EXCAVATION SHORING AND TIMBERING

Strut width Strut width

Vertical Horizontal
Excavation Soil where width of where width of
Item Sheathing strut strut Wales
Depth Type excavation at strut excavation at strut
spacing spacing
is 1.8 to 3.6 m is up to 1.8 m
50 mm × 200 mm *200 mm ×
1 3.0 m or less 1 200 mm × 200 mm 150 mm × 150 mm 1.2 m *2.4 m
at 1.2 m o/c 200 mm
50 mm × 200 mm *200 mm ×
2 3.0 m or less 2 200 mm × 200 mm 150 mm × 150 mm 1.2 m *2.4 m
at 1.2 m o/c 200 mm
50 mm × 200 mm 250 mm ×
3 3.0 m or less 3 200 mm × 200 mm 200 mm × 200 mm 1.2 m 2.4 m
at 10 mm gap 250 mm
75 mm × 200 mm 300 mm ×
4 3.0 m or less 4 250 mm × 250 mm 200 mm × 200 mm 1.2 m 2.4 m
at 10 mm gap 300 mm
Over 3.0 m to 50 mm × 200 mm 200 mm ×
5 1 200 mm × 200 mm 150 mm × 150 mm 1.2 m 2.4 m
4.5 m at 10 mm gap 200 mm
Over 3.0 m to 50 mm × 200 mm 250 mm ×
6 2 200 mm × 200 mm 200 mm × 200 mm 1.2 m 2.4 m
4.5 m at 10 mm gap 250 mm
Over 3.0 m to 50 mm × 200 mm 250 mm ×
7 3 250 mm × 250 mm 250 mm × 250 mm 1.2 m 2.4 m
4.5 m at 10 mm gap 250 mm
Over 3.0 m to 75 mm × 200 mm 300 mm ×
8 4 300 mm × 300 mm 300 mm × 300 mm 1.2 m 2.4 m
4.5 m at 10 mm gap 300 mm
Over 4.5 m to 50 mm × 200 mm 200 mm ×
9 1 200 mm × 200 mm 200 mm × 200 mm 1.2 m 2.4 m
6.0 m at 10 mm gap 200 mm
Over 4.5 m to 50 mm × 200 mm 250 mm ×
10 2 250 mm × 250 mm 250 mm × 250 mm 1.2 m 2.4 m
6.0 m at 10 mm gap 250 mm
Over 4.5 m to 50 mm × 200 mm 300 mm ×
11 3 300 mm × 300 mm 300 mm × 300 mm 1.2 m 2.4 m
6.0 m at 10 mm gap 300 mm

*NOTE: For excavations to 3 m deep in soil types 1 and 2, the wales can be omitted if the struts are used at 1.2 m horizontal spacings.

(3) No support system for the walls of system for the walls of the excavation
an excavation shall be removed until shall extend at least to the top of the
immediately before the excavation is excavation.
backfilled. (3) If the upper portion of the walls of an
(4) A competent person shall supervise the excavation are sloped for the soil types as
removal of a support system for the walls described in clauses 234 (2) (e), (f) and
of an excavation. (g) and the lower portion of the walls are
240. If a support system is used for the walls of vertical or near vertical, the walls shall
an excavation, a ladder for access to or egress be supported by a support system which
from the excavation shall be placed within the extends at least 0.5 metres above the
area protected by the support system. vertical walls.

241. (1) A support system for the walls of an 242. (1) A metal trench-jack or trench-brace may
excavation shall extend at least 0.3 metres be used in place of a timber strut,
above the top of the excavation unless (a) if the allowable working load of the
otherwise permitted or required by this trench-jack or trench-brace is equal to
section. or greater than that of the timber strut;
(2) If an excavation is located where there is and
vehicular or pedestrian traffic and if the (b) if the size of the replaced timber strut
excavation will be covered when work is shown on the trench-jack or trench-
on or in it is not in progress, the support brace.

2021 Edition 27
EXCAVATIONS REGULATIONS

(2) The allowable working load of a metal

trench-jack or trench-brace shall be
determined by a professional engineer
in accordance with good engineering
practice and shall be legibly cast or
stamped on the trench-jack or trench-
brace.
(3) No metal trench-jack or trench-brace shall
be extended beyond the length used to
establish its maximum allowable working
load.
(4) Every metal trench-jack or trench-brace,
when it is used,
(a) shall be placed against the wales in
such a way that the load from the
wales is applied axially to the trench-
jack or trench-brace; and
(b) shall be adequately supported so that
it does not move out of position.

28 Trenching Safety (M026)

 APPENDIX B REVIEW QUIZ

B Review Quiz 4. Previously excavated soil, such as that found

around existing utilities or used for backfill, is
usually less stable.
Introduction
True False
1. Are there regulations which set out 5. Surcharge puts additional pressure on trench
requirements for trenching projects? walls.

Yes No True False

2. The major cause of fatalities in the trenching

Protection Against Cave-Ins
industry is .
1. The basic methods of protecting workers from
3. List three causes of lost-time injuries in the cave-ins are:
trenching industry. 1.

1. 2.

3.
2.
2. The angle of slope for trench walls depends
3. on conditions.

4. Which diagram best illustrates a trench? True False

A or B 3. Which illustration shows the minimum sloping

requirements for an unprotected trench in
good soil contitions?

A B

Trench Stability
1. List three factors that affect trench stability.

1.
4. Trench boxes are usually not intended to
2. support the trench walls.
3. True False
2. List three sources of vibration. 5. The major advantage of hydraulic shoring is
that workers can install it without having to
1.
enter the trench.
2.
True False
3.
6. Dimensions and components of timber shoring
3. Trench wall stability will change as the trench change according to soil conditions and the
is exposed to the weather. depth of the trench.

True False True False

2021 Edition 29
REVIEW QUIZ

7. List two components of timber shoring that 5. What is the main injury likely to result during
should always be inspected. materials handling?

1.

2. 6. Workers on foot may be injured or killed by

equipment backing up.
8. Ladders must be placed within the area
protected by the shoring or trench box. True False

True False 7. List three ground rules for signallers.

9. What sign on the ground surface next to the 1.

trench would indicate that the trench wall is
becoming less stable? 2.

3.

8. List three ground rules for personnel working

near operating vehicles and heavy equipment.
Other Hazards and Safeguards 1.
1. List three hazards, other than cave-in, that can 2.
occur on trenching projects.
3.
1.
9. Regulations require Traffic Control Persons
2.
(TCPs) to be given instruction in a language
3. they understand.

2. Underground utilities should first be located True False

by the utility company, then exposed by hand
10. A manhole is a confined space.
digging before using excavation equipment.
True False
True False

3. Workers should stay well back from machines

operating near overhead powerlines.

True False

4. What should you do if the machine strikes

overhead powerlines?

Operator:

Worker:

30 Trenching Safety (M026)

NOTES
NOTES
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Trenching Safety
Engage your workers in health
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M9W 5M7 Canada
Tel: 1-800-263-5024 2021 Revised Edition
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M026