Hydraulic Shores and Safety Measures for Trenches

Safety Measures for Trenches

According to Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations, trenches greater than 4 feet in depth require a reliable form of personnel exit, such as ladders. This safety measure is crucial to ensure the well-being of workers in case of emergencies or hazardous situations.

In addition to a reliable form of personnel exit, common protective systems used in trenches include:

• Hydraulic shores: These are support structures placed within a trench to prevent cave-ins and provide stability.
• Screw jacks: Mechanical devices used to support trench walls and prevent collapse.
• Solid sheeting: Protective barriers placed against trench walls to prevent soil movement and potential collapse.

While Hydraulic shores, screw jacks, and solid sheeting are valuable protective systems, they may not always be required for trenches greater than 4 feet in depth. However, having a reliable form of personnel exit, such as ladders, is mandatory to ensure the safety and well-being of workers.