Washington state’s trenching and excavation rule took effect June 1. The rule amends chapter 296-155 WAC, Safety standard for construction work, Part N, Excavation, trenching, and shoring, to require employers to include a risk analysis in their written work plan before any work involving a protective system begins. The work plan can be found on the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries website or employers may create their own.
The adopted rule also:
- Creates a standalone definition section and adds a new definition of “work plan,”
- Requires a competent person to remain onsite during all trenching and excavation work, and
- Addresses recordkeeping and training requirements of the trench excavation work plan.
McCraren Compliance offers comprehensive safety training to help prevent accidents. Visit our class calendar to see how our training and consulting services can enhance your safety efforts.
Original article published by J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc.