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Write a toolbox talk on deep screening

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Deep Screening Work: Excavation and Trenching Safety ====================================================

Date: 2026-06-28

Duration: \[DURATION] minutes

Presenter: \[PRESENTER NAME]

Location: \[LOCATION]

Objective

To reinforce safe work practices for deep screening work involving excavation and trenching, with emphasis on ground stability, collapse prevention, protective systems, safe access and egress, fall protection, buried services identification, exclusion zones, plant and equipment hazards, PPE, risk assessment, permit-to-work controls, emergency rescue procedures, and compliance with OSHA excavation standards and site safety regulations.

Introduction

Excavation and trenching work is among the highest-risk activities in construction because conditions can change quickly and a single failure can be fatal. Cave-ins, struck-by incidents, caught-in/between hazards, falls, and contact with buried services can all occur with little warning. OSHA guidance and industry toolbox talks consistently emphasize that trenching and excavation hazards must be identified before entry, controlled with protective systems, and re-evaluated whenever conditions change. A competent person must inspect excavations before work begins and after events such as rain, vibration, thawing, or other changes that may affect stability. Safe planning, disciplined communication, and strict exclusion of unauthorized personnel are essential to preventing serious injury or death.

Presenter Note: Open by asking who has worked in excavations or trenches before and what hazards they have personally seen. Emphasize that deep screening work is not routine work; it requires planning, inspection, and constant awareness.

Key Points

  • 1\. Ground stability must be verified before anyone enters: The most important control in excavation and trenching is confirming that the ground can safely support the work. Soil can appear stable and still fail without warning, especially after rain, vibration, thawing, or nearby loading. A competent person must evaluate the excavation daily and again whenever conditions change. Soil type must be identified correctly because protective system requirements depend on whether the soil is stable rock, Type A, Type B, or Type C. Workers must never assume a trench is safe simply because it looks dry or has been open for a short time. [1]

[1] [1]

  • Inspect for tension cracks, fissures, sloughing, bulging, seepage, and undermined edges.
  • Treat any change in weather, groundwater, or nearby equipment vibration as a trigger for re-inspection.
  • Do not enter an excavation until the competent person confirms the protective system is adequate.
  • 2\. Protective systems are required to prevent cave-ins: Cave-ins are the greatest excavation hazard and can bury or crush a worker in seconds. Use shoring, shielding, sloping, or benching as required by the competent person, especially in excavations deeper than 4 feet or where conditions warrant protection at lesser depths. Protective systems must be installed, used, and maintained according to manufacturer instructions and removed from service if damaged. Never enter an unprotected trench or excavation, regardless of how shallow it may appear. [1]

[1] [1]

  • Match the protective system to the soil conditions, depth, and site constraints.
  • Inspect shields, shoring, and related components before each use.
  • Keep spoil piles and equipment back from the edge to reduce surcharge loading.
  • 3\. Safe access and egress must be provided and maintained: Workers need a reliable way to enter and exit the excavation without climbing on unstable surfaces or protective systems. Access and egress should be planned before work starts and kept clear throughout the shift. Ladders, ramps, or other approved means should be positioned so workers can exit quickly if conditions change. Access points must not be blocked by spoil, tools, hoses, or plant movement. Good access and egress also supports emergency response by allowing faster removal of injured workers. [1]

[5]

  • Keep ladders or ramps within easy reach of workers in the trench.
  • Inspect access equipment for damage, stability, and proper placement.
  • Do not use excavation walls, shoring, or pipe as climbing aids unless specifically designed for that purpose.
  • 4\. Falls into excavations are a serious secondary hazard: Excavations create open edges, uneven walking surfaces, and hidden drop-offs that can lead to falls into the trench or onto protruding hazards. Fall protection requirements may apply depending on the task, surface, and depth. Barricades, covers, warning lines, and controlled access points should be used to keep people away from edges. Workers should stay alert when moving near excavation boundaries, especially when carrying materials or working in poor visibility. [2]

[2]

  • Use barricades or edge protection where workers could accidentally enter the excavation.
  • Keep walkways clear and maintain stable footing around the perimeter.
  • Apply fall protection requirements based on the task and trigger height.
  • 5\. Buried services must be identified before digging begins: Underground utilities and buried services can include electrical, gas, water, sewer, communications, and process lines. Striking a buried service can cause electrocution, explosion, flooding, toxic release, service interruption, or collapse of the excavation. The work area must be surveyed, marked, and verified before excavation starts, and hand digging or other approved methods should be used when approaching marked utilities. No one should assume that old drawings are accurate or that previous excavation records are complete. [11]
  • Confirm utility locates and site markings before excavation starts.
  • Use cautious, controlled excavation methods near marked services.
  • Stop work immediately if unmarked lines, voids, or unexpected materials are encountered.
  • 6\. Plant, equipment, and exclusion zone controls prevent struck-by and caught-in/between incidents: Excavation work often occurs near excavators, dump trucks, compactors, lifting equipment, and other mobile plant. These activities create struck-by, pinch point, and caught-in/between hazards, especially where workers are near swing radii, reversing equipment, or spoil handling. Establish exclusion zones, use spotters where needed, maintain eye contact with operators, and keep workers out of the line of fire. Never walk between operating equipment and fixed objects, and never stand in pinch-point areas or under suspended loads. [8]

[8] [1] [7]

  • Use barricades, cones, or tape to define the danger zone around plant movement.
  • Ensure backup alarms, lights, and communication methods are working.
  • Keep workers visible to operators and use a spotter when visibility is limited.

Hazard Identification

The following hazards are commonly associated with deep screening work, excavation, and trenching. Each one can lead to severe injury or fatality if not controlled.

  • Trench or excavation cave-in due to unstable soil, surcharge loading, vibration, or water intrusion: Burial, crushing injuries, suffocation, traumatic injury, and death. [1]

[1]

(Risk: High)

  • Contact with buried electrical, gas, water, or communication services: Electrocution, explosion, fire, flooding, toxic exposure, service disruption, and secondary collapse. [11]

(Risk: High)

  • Falls into open excavations or onto protruding objects at the edge or bottom of the excavation: Fractures, head injury, impalement, spinal injury, and fatal trauma. [2]

[2]

(Risk: High)

  • Struck-by and caught-in/between incidents from excavators, dump trucks, compactors, and lifting operations: Crushing injuries, amputations, fractures, internal injuries, and death. [1]

[8]

(Risk: High)

  • Slips, trips, and falls caused by uneven ground, spoil piles, hoses, tools, and poor housekeeping: Sprains, strains, fractures, and falls into the excavation. [10]

(Risk: Medium)

  • Inadequate PPE selection or improper use of PPE: Head injury, eye injury, foot crush injuries, hand lacerations, and increased severity of exposure to site hazards. [3]

[12]

(Risk: Medium)

Presenter Note: Ask the crew to identify which hazards are most likely on today’s job and what could change the risk level during the shift, such as weather, traffic, or nearby plant movement.

Control Measures

Use the hierarchy of controls to reduce excavation risk. Eliminate the hazard where possible by redesigning the work or changing the sequence. Apply engineering controls such as sloping, benching, shoring, shielding, barricades, and utility protection. Use administrative controls such as permits, competent person inspections, traffic control, exclusion zones, and pre-task briefings. PPE is the last line of defense and must support, not replace, higher-level controls.

  • Conduct a documented risk assessment and pre-task plan before excavation begins: Review soil conditions, depth, nearby structures, buried services, weather, plant movement, access routes, and rescue needs. Update the assessment whenever conditions change. [9]

[9]

  • Use a permit-to-work system for excavation and trenching activities: Require authorization before digging starts, confirm utility locates, verify protective systems, and ensure the competent person has approved the setup before entry. [1]
  • Install and maintain a compliant protective system: Select shoring, shielding, sloping, or benching based on soil type, depth, and site conditions. Inspect systems before use and remove damaged components from service. [1]
  • Establish and enforce exclusion zones around excavation edges and plant movement: Barricade open edges, keep spoil piles and equipment away from the lip, and prevent unauthorized entry into the work zone. Use spotters and clear communication where plant is operating. [8]

[8]

  • Provide safe access and egress at all times: Place ladders, ramps, or other approved access points so workers can exit quickly. Keep access routes clear of spoil, tools, hoses, and moving equipment. [1]
  • Control buried service hazards before and during digging: Verify utility markings, use approved locating methods, and expose lines carefully by hand or other controlled methods when approaching known services. Stop work if unknown services are found. [11]
  • Manage plant and equipment hazards with traffic control and communication: Use backup alarms, high-visibility clothing, spotters, hand signals or radios, and clear operator-worker eye contact. Keep workers out of swing radius and pinch-point areas. [8]

[7]

Safe Work Procedures

  1. Confirm the excavation permit, utility locates, and pre-task risk assessment before any digging or entry begins.
  2. Have the competent person inspect the excavation at the start of the shift and after any event that could affect stability.
  3. Install the required protective system before workers enter the excavation and verify it is correctly assembled and undamaged.
  4. Keep spoil piles, tools, and equipment back from the edge and maintain barricades or other exclusion controls.
  5. Provide and maintain safe access and egress, and keep the route clear throughout the task.
  6. Stop work immediately if ground movement, water seepage, utility damage, or unexpected conditions are observed.

Presenter Note: Walk the crew through the sequence of work from permit approval to final backfill. Reinforce that no one enters until the excavation is inspected, protected, and cleared for entry.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Requirements

  • Hard Hat: Wear a properly fitted hard hat whenever there is a risk of falling objects, overhead hazards, or head contact with fixed objects. Keep the bill facing forward, do not alter the shell or suspension, and remove damaged hats from service. Hard hats are especially important around excavation edges, lifting operations, and mobile plant. [6]

[12]

  • Inspect for cracks, dents, UV damage, or other deterioration before use.
  • Do not wear caps or objects under the suspension that reduce protection.
  • Replace the hard hat after a heavy impact or if it is damaged.
  • Eye and Face Protection: Wear safety glasses or goggles to protect against dust, flying particles, splashes, and debris generated during excavation, cutting, breaking, or utility exposure work. Use face shields when additional face protection is needed, but do not rely on a face shield alone for eye protection. [12]

[4]

  • Select eye protection based on the specific hazard.
  • Keep lenses clean and replace damaged or scratched PPE.
  • Use compatible eye protection with hard hats and other headgear.
  • Safety-Toe Footwear: Wear safety-toe boots with slip-resistant and puncture-resistant soles to protect against dropped tools, rolling materials, sharp debris, and uneven ground. Footwear should be suitable for wet, muddy, or contaminated conditions and kept in good repair. [12]

[13]

  • Choose boots that match the site conditions and weather.
  • Inspect soles and toe caps regularly for wear or damage.
  • Keep laces secured and maintain good traction on muddy surfaces.
  • Gloves and High-Visibility Apparel: Wear gloves appropriate to the task to reduce cuts, abrasions, and pinch-point injuries when handling tools, soil, pipe, or utility materials. High-visibility clothing helps operators see workers in the excavation area and around moving plant. PPE must fit properly and be maintained in serviceable condition. [3]

[8]

  • Choose gloves that allow dexterity without sacrificing protection.
  • Use hi-vis apparel whenever working near mobile equipment or in traffic-controlled areas.
  • Replace worn, torn, or contaminated PPE promptly.

PPE is the last line of defense. It must be selected for the hazard, worn correctly, inspected before use, and replaced when damaged or no longer effective.

Real-World Example or Case Study

A trenching crew began work after utility markings were completed, but the excavation was not re-inspected after overnight rain. By mid-morning, the sidewall began to slough and a worker stepped closer to the edge to check alignment. The worker slipped, the edge collapsed further, and the crew had to stop work and call emergency services. No one was buried, but the incident caused a near miss, equipment damage, and a full review of the excavation controls. The lesson was clear: a trench that was acceptable yesterday may be unsafe today. Daily competent-person inspections, weather-triggered re-evaluation, and strict edge control are essential. [1] [1]

Presenter Note: Use this example to reinforce that near misses are warning signs. Ask the crew what they would do differently if they saw sloughing, seepage, or a worker approaching the edge.

Group Discussion

Discuss the following questions:

  1. What conditions today could change excavation stability before the end of the shift?
  2. Where are the nearest buried services, and how will we verify them before digging?
  3. What is our emergency plan if a collapse, utility strike, or equipment incident occurs?

Presenter Note: Encourage short, practical answers. Keep the discussion focused on today’s site conditions, not general theory.

Emergency Procedures

  1. If a collapse, cave-in, or entrapment occurs, stop work immediately, raise the alarm, and call emergency services without delay. Do not allow untrained workers to enter the excavation for a rescue attempt.
  2. If a buried utility is struck or suspected to be damaged, stop work, evacuate the area, isolate ignition sources if safe to do so, and notify the responsible utility and site supervision immediately.
  3. If a worker is injured near plant or in a trench, keep the area secure, maintain exclusion zones, and provide first aid only if it can be done without exposing rescuers to additional collapse or struck-by hazards.

Questions and Answers

If you have a question about today’s excavation, ask it now. No one should guess when the hazard could be a collapse, utility strike, or equipment incident.

  • Q: Who is allowed to inspect an excavation before entry?

A: A competent person must inspect the excavation before anyone enters and again whenever conditions change. The inspection must confirm that the excavation is stable and that the protective system is adequate. [1]

  • Q: What protective systems can be used in trenching work?

A: Shoring, shielding, sloping, and benching are the primary protective systems used to prevent cave-ins. The competent person selects the appropriate system based on soil conditions, depth, and site constraints. [1]

  • Q: What should workers do if the excavation changes after rain or vibration?

A: Stop work and have the excavation re-evaluated before anyone re-enters. Rain, vibration, thawing soils, and similar events can make the soil unstable and increase collapse risk. [1]

Summary

Recap of main points:

  • Excavation safety starts with competent-person inspection, soil evaluation, and a clear understanding of changing ground conditions.
  • No worker should enter an unprotected trench; use the correct protective system and keep it in serviceable condition.
  • Control falls, buried services, and plant movement with barricades, exclusion zones, communication, and safe access/egress.
  • PPE supports the work, but it does not replace planning, engineering controls, permits, and disciplined supervision.

Action Items

Specific actions participants should take:

  1. Review the excavation permit, utility locates, and today’s risk assessment before starting work.
  2. Verify that the trench or excavation has been inspected and protected before entry.
  3. Keep clear of edges, swing radii, and pinch points, and use the designated access and egress points.
  4. Report any ground movement, water seepage, damaged protective systems, or utility concerns immediately.

Remember: Inspect it, protect it, and never enter an unprotected excavation.

Report all hazards, near-misses, and incidents to your supervisor immediately.

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13 source record(s)

Sources used for this answer

[1] Toolbox Talk: Heavy Equipment

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Open source document

Source excerpt

# HEAVY EQUIPMENT (cont.) ## SPOTTERS Worker visibility and visual and verbal communication are essential to keeping workers safe around moving construction equipment. Blind spots can be a significant hazard for workers on the ground where the operator is unable to see them. A spotter, using effective means of communication or hand signals, can help communicate between the operator, workers on the ground, and any pedestrians entering the work zone. Spotters must wear high-visibility clothing, stand clear of equipment, and always be visible to the equipment operator. ## GENERAL SAFETY WHEN OPERATING OR WORKING AROUND HEAVY EQUIPMENT • Develop a work zone traffic control plan. Indicate travel routes through the site to eliminate (as much as possible) the need for backing equipment or vehicles. • When vehicles or heavy equipment must operate in reverse, ensure they are equipped with an audible backup alarm. • Inspect equipment before operation to ensure all lights and audible alarms work correctly. • Set up the equipment in the work zone so that construction equipment and workers have adequate space to perform the planned tasks. • Use 3-point mounting and dismounting technique off heavy equipment - NEVER JUMP OFF HEAVY EQUIPMENT. • - Establish a "danger zone," the working area where contact could result in personal injury or damage during operations. • Wear high-visibility clothing when working around heavy mobile equipment. • Use predefined and understood hand signals or two-way radios to control movement within the work zone. • Maintain a clear line of sight between the operator and workers. • Use a spotter when heavy equipment is in motion. This requires communication between the operator and workers to maintain safe movement. • Workers - should keep a safe distance from all sides of the heavy equipment while it is in use. • Be aware of the swing radius on specific equipment and, if possible, cordon off the area with barriers or caution tape. • A…

[2] Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Guide

Page 67

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# Select the appropriate protection: <table><tr><th>If work activities involve</th><th>Then use</th></tr><tr><td> carrying or handling materials which could be dropped - packages - objects - parts - heavy tools • other activities where objects might fall onto the feet</td><td>safety shoes/boots with impact protection - steel-toed safety shoes</td></tr><tr><td> skid trucks (manual material handling carts) working around bulk rolls (such as paper rolls) • working around heavy pipes (could potentially roll over employees' feet</td><td>safety shoes/boots with compression protection -steel-toed safety shoes</td></tr><tr><td>• working in areas where sharp objects could be stepped on - nails, tacks, screws - wire - large staples - scrap metal parts</td><td>safety shoes/boots with puncture protection - puncture-resistant soles</td></tr><tr><td>• working on tops of logs</td><td>caulk or other non-slip footwear</td></tr><tr><td> (in construction) working around materials which could - burn, scald - cut - penetrate/puncture</td><td>safety shoes/boots with leather or equivalent firm material (Note: leather provides poor absorption protection.)</td></tr><tr><td>• exposure to hot substances or dangerous chemical spills</td><td>leggings or high boots of leather, rubber, or other suitable material</td></tr></table> ## Some Types of protective foot/leg equipment: <table><tr><th>Type</th><th>Hazard Protection</th><th>Description</th></tr><tr><td>Steel-reinforced Safety Shoes</td><td>protect feet from common machinery hazards: falling objects rolling objects • cuts • punctures</td><td>entire toe box and insole reinforced with steel instep protected by steel, aluminum, or plastic may be designed to insulate against temperature extremes may be equipped with special soles to guard against slip, chemicals, heat, and/or electrical hazards.</td></tr><tr><td>Safety Boots</td><td>more protection from splash or spark hazards or electrical hazards than shoes: chemicals - corrosives, caus…

[3] Tool Box Talk: Personal Protective Equipment

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MIOSHA Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration ## Special points of interest: • Wear Hard Hats, Safety Glasses, and Work Boots on job sites. • Use face shields and goggles when safety glasses are not enough • Wear safety toe foot- wear when feet can be crushed by heavy objects # Tool Box Talk Personal Protective Equipment MIOSHA Construction Safety Standard Part 6. Personal Protective Equipment Employer: Shall provide, at no expense to the employee, the initial issue of personal protective equipment (PPE) and replacement equipment necessary due to reasonable wear and tear required, unless specifically indicated otherwise or other employer/employee agreement specifically requires employees to provide such equipment. Employee: An employee shall wear PPE when prescribed by the MIOSHA rules. ## Head protection (Hard Hat): . Class A hard hat shall be used where a hazard from falling or flying objects or particles or from other harmful contacts or exposures may be present • physically altered, painted, or damaged hard hats shall not be worn • Wear hard hat brim forward • Do not ware baseball hats underneath ## Eye and face protection: - Z87.1 safety glasses shall be used where a hazard exists from flying objects or particles, harmful contacts, such as when using power tools, hammers, and working over head. • An employee who needs corrective lenses where eye protection is required shall be protected by 1 of the following: (a) Spectacles whose protective lenses provide optical correction. (b) Goggles that can be worn over the corrective lenses without disturbing the adjustment of the spectacles. - Use goggles when working around dust, chemicals - Use face shields to protect face from particles, chemicals Face shields do not protect eyes from flying object high impacts, must use Z87.1 safety glasses underneath ## Foot protection: • Employee Provided / Employer must require • ANSI Z41-1999 or ASTM 2412 & 2413 certified footwear mu…

[4] Toolbox Talk: Concrete Placement

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# CONCRETE PLACEMENT Date Posted: 05/12/2025 ## Concrete Placement Concrete is composed of cement, sand, and aggregate, which are a collection of raw materials, like sand, gravel, and crushed stone, that make up a large portion of concrete and water. When these components are mixed in the correct proportions, concrete becomes a stable and versatile building material that can be used for various applications such as roads, bridges, buildings, septic tanks, and even household countertops. The versatility of concrete in building applications can be achieved by adjusting the proportions of air and other variables in the mixture. Additionally, strengthening materials like re-bar, fiberglass strands, and plastic rods are added to reinforce the concrete. According to the Center for Construction Research and Training (CPWR), there were over 3,000 injuries that resulted in days away from work due to concrete pour- related work. Concrete work is often physically demanding and poses many hazards for those working in this field. Although there may be a need for a steady or fast pace at times, it is crucial to take the time to identify the hazards of the work and minimize them. ## HAZARDS OF WORKING WITH CONCRETE - Chemical burns: It is crucial to protect your skin from coming into direct contact with concrete. Dry cement and wet concrete can lead to skin irritation, dermatitis, or even a chemical burn. The chemicals in cement extract moisture from anything to help in the drying process. When cement pulls the moisture from the skin, it damages the skin cells severely. If left untreated, once concrete hardens, the skin will blister, swell, and bleed, resulting in a second to third- degree burn. In the most severe cases, skin contact with concrete has led to scarring, the need for skin grafts, and even amputations. Therefore, it is essential to wear proper PPE such as gloves, boots, and eye protection when working with cement materials like wet concrete. It is frequently r…

[5] OSH Enforcement Procedures | CPL 02-00-165 - Compliance Directive for the Excavation Standard, 29 CFR 1926, Subpart P

Page 10

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# Executive Summary (cont.) ## VII. Federal Program Change - Notice of Intent and Equivalency Required. (cont.) 3. Inspection and Citation Guidance for Roadway and Highway Construction Work Zones, CPL 02-01-054, Section XI, Compliance Personnel Training and Safety 4. Utilize the appropriate PPE, and other equipment outlined in paragraph C of this section. 5. Never enter a trench excavation, regardless of depth. 6. Never approach an excavation without inspecting for tension cracks, fissures, undermined areas, and any other circumstances that could lead to a potential collapse or cave-in, such as a spoil pile next to the edge of an excavation. When possible, inspect from multiple angles prior to approaching an excavation. 7. Avoid all struck-by and caught-in between hazards due to equipment operation near the excavation. C. Equipment. - When conducting excavation inspections the CSHO shall use the following appropriate equipment, if needed: 1. Safety and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). a. High-visibility vest. b. Head protection. c. Safety-toe footwear. d. Eye protection. e. Hearing Protection. The CSHO shall have ready access to hearing protection. The CSHO shall evaluate noise levels and wear adequate hearing protection as set out in OSHA Instruction PER ADM 04-00-003, Hearing Conservation Program. f. Gloves. The CSHO shall ready access to the appropriate hand protection. The CSHO shall evaluate soil sampling hazards and wear adequate hand protection as set out in OSHA Instruction ADM 04-00-003, Personal Protective Equipment. 2. Other Equipment. a. Camera and/or video equipment (extra batteries and memory storage). b. Paper (graphing preferred), and writing instruments. c. Engineering rod (telescoping rod used for measurements, also called trench rod). a d. Trench-Mate kit. e. Spray paint. f. Grading stakes. g. 25 ft., or greater measuring tape. 8

[6] OSHA Quick Card: Construction Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

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# OSHA QUICK CARD™ ## Protect Yourself Construction Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) ## Eye and Face Protection - Safety glasses or face shields are worn any time work operations can cause foreign objects to get in the eye. For example, during welding, cutting, grinding, nailing (or when working with concrete and/or harmful chemi- cals or when exposed to flying particles). Wear when exposed to any electrical hazards, including working on energized electrical systems. - Eye and face protectors - select based on anticipated hazards. ## Foot Protection - Construction workers should wear work shoes or boots with slip-resistant and puncture-resistant soles. • Safety-toed footwear is worn to prevent crushed toes when working around heavy equipment or falling objects. - Hand Protection - Gloves should fit snugly. - Workers should wear the right gloves for the job (examples: heavy-duty rubber gloves for concrete work; welding gloves for welding; insulated gloves and sleeves when exposed to electrical hazards). - Head Protection • Wear hard hats where there is a potential for objects falling from above, bumps to the head from fixed objects, or of accidental head contact with electrical hazards. - Hard hats - routinely inspect them for dents, cracks or deterioration; replace after a heavy blow or electrical shock; maintain in good condition. - Hearing Protection - Use earplugs/earmuffs in high noise work areas where chainsaws or heavy equipment are used; clean or replace earplugs regularly. For more complete information: Occupational OSHA Safety and Health Administration U.S. Department of Labor www.osha.gov (800) 321-OSHA OSHA 3260-09N-05

[7] Toolbox Talk: The Fatal Four in Construction - Caught In / Between

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# THE FATAL FOUR IN CONSTRUCTION - CAUGHT IN / BETWEEN ✰ SAFETY FIRST GUARDS MUST BE IN PLACE BEFORE USE Date Posted: 12/12/2023 Nationally, referred workers suffer approximately 125,000 caught-in-between or crushed injuries yearly when body parts get caught between two objects or are entangled with machinery. These hazards are also to as "pinch points." The physical forces applied to a body part caught in a pinch point can vary and cause injuries ranging from bruises, cuts, amputated body parts, and even death. According to Caught-in or -Between Hazards are defined as injuries resulting from a person being squeezed, caught, crushed, pinched, or compressed between two or more objects or between parts of an object. identifying caught-in or -between hazards and understanding how they happen, we can take steps to protect ourselves. OSHA, By ## UNGUARDED MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT Machinery can pose hazards with moving parts, conveyors, rollers, and rotating shafts. Refrain from reaching into unguarded machinery. Becoming caught in machinery can result in bodily entrapment, broken or crushed limbs and bones, suffocation, punctures, head injuries, internal damage, and death. ## HOW TO PREVENT MACHINERY & SERVICE-RELATED INCIDENTS • Service equipment in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations. • Use safety equipment such as chock blocks, jack stands, etc. • Make sure all guards and covers are placed correctly and are not damaged. Inspect all safety equipment following the manufacturer's recommendations. Use appropriately rated equipment. • Always service equipment on stable, level ground. • Always engage the parking brake while maintaining equipment. • De-energize and lockout (LOTO) the equipment's energy (hydraulics, electrical system, etc.). • Keep gloves, loose clothing, jewelry, and long hair away from moving gears and rotating shafts. ## CAUGHT BETWEEN OBJECTS According to OSHA, more than 22% of all injuries annually are related to caught-…

[8] Toolbox Talk: Head Protection

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CPWR TOOLBOX THE CENTER FOR CONSTRUCTION RESEARCH AND TRAINING TALK # Head Protection The hard hat is one of the most widely used and important pieces of personal protective equipment (PPE) on the job. Hard hats protect workers from head injuries due to falling objects and overhead hazards. ## Bob's Story Bob and his crew were putting a new roof on a house. During his lunch break, Bob was on the ground eating a sandwich. A worker on the roof dropped his hammer. The falling hammer struck Bob's hard hat. Although Bob had some pain and discomfort, he did not need hospitalization. - Have you or someone you know ever had their hard hat prevent an injury? If so, what happened? - How could this incident have been prevented? ## Remember This ➤ On a jobsite, always wear a hard hat that fits properly. ➤ Always wear your hard hat with the bill facing forward. Certification by ANSI does not cover hard hats worn backwards. ➤ Always avoid contact between the hard hat and electric wires. ➤ Always keep the space between the shell and the head clear. For example, don't wear a ball cap or other object under your hard hat. Never alter its shell or suspension, because that could drastically reduce the protection it gives. ➤ Never use a cushion-support suspension that is intended for use with a different hard hat shell or that is made by a different manufacturer. ➤ If you wear eye protection, use a kind designed to work with hard hats. Be sure to follow the maker's instructions for use. How can we stay safe today? What will we do at the worksite to promote hard hat use and prevent head injuries? - 1. - 2. OSHA Regulation: 1926.100 ©2017, CPWR-The Center for Construction Research and Training. All rights reserved. CPWR is the research and training arm of NABTU. Production of this document was supported by cooperative agreement OH 009762 from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). The contents are solely the responsibility of the authors an…

[9] Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Checklist

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# Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Checklist <table><tr><th>General PPE Requirements</th><th>Yes</th><th>No</th><th>Comments</th></tr><tr><td>1. Has a hazard assessment to identify and control physical and health hazards been completed? If not, perform a hazard assessment.</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>2. Have engineering and/or administrative controls been applied prior to the use of PPE? If not, apply them first if applicable and appropriate.</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>3. Has appropriate PPE that matches the hazard been identified and provided to employees for use?</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>4. Has the effectiveness of the PPE program been reviewed, updated and evaluated periodically?</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>5. Have employees been trained on the use and care of the PPE?</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>6. Have employees been trained on the limitations of the PPE?</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>7. Is the PPE training documented and kept on file?</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>8. Are supervisors enforcing the use of required PPE?</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>9. Is PPE inspected regularly and properly maintained?</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>10. Is worn and damaged PPE removed from service and replaced?</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>11. When the following type of PPE is necessary, is the employer providing and paying for the PPE as stated by the OSHA standard 1910.132? Metatarsal foot protection - Rubber boots with steel toes Non-specialty-toe footwear (i.e. steel toe shoes/boots) if the employer does not permit it to be worn off the job site Non-prescriptive eye protection Prescriptive eyewear inserts/lenses for full face respirators Goggles and face shields Firefighting PPE (i.e. helmet, boots, gloves, full gear, proximity suits, etc.) Hard hats Hearing protection Welding PPE</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr></t…

[10] Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Guide

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# What is a hazard? A hazard is an existing (or potential) hazardous or unsafe condition or work practice that, by itself or in combination with other conditions, could cause injury, illness, or death to workers, as well as cause property damage. Hazards may exist from • Processes, procedures • Unsafe equipment, machinery, or tools • Unsafe work practices - Any series of actions or operations (manufacturing, equipment, product flow, etc., and handling) that convert raw material into a product - For example damaged tools, unguarded blades or unguarded moving parts, etc. - Allowing untrained workers to perform hazardous tasks, taking unsafe shortcuts, being distracted, working long shifts, etc. The table below describes some common types of hazards. It does not cover all the possible hazards that employees may face or for which personal protective equipment may be required. Some hazards, such as noisy environments or those that may require respirators, must be evaluated with appropriate test equipment to quantify the exposure level when overexposure is suspected. (Hearing and respiratory protection will be covered in future volumes.) <table><tr><th>Hazard Type</th><th>General Description</th><th>Examples</th></tr><tr><td>Impact</td><td>Person can strike an object or be struck by a moving or flying or falling object.</td><td>• movement of machine parts · chips thrown from machines falls from elevation or on the same level</td></tr><tr><td>Penetration</td><td>Person can strike, be struck by, or fall upon an object or tool that would break the skin.</td><td>. sharp edges or protrusions on tools, machines, or in aisles</td></tr><tr><td>Crush or pinch</td><td>An object(s) or machine may crush or pinch a body or body part.</td><td>a falling, rolling, or dropped object that causes crushing injury to hands or feet • press</td></tr><tr><td>Harmful Dust</td><td>Presence of dust that may cause irritation, or breathing or vision difficulty. May also have ignition pot…

[11] Toolbox Talk: Pinch Points

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# PINCH POINTS Date Posted: 09/02/2016 A Pinch Point is produced when 2 objects come together and there is a possibility that a person could be caught or injured when coming in contact with that area. Pinch points commonly impact fingers/hands, but can impact any area of the body. The injury resulting from a pinch point could be as minor as a blister or as severe as amputation or death. Conveyors, gears, loaders, compactors and other moving equipment are examples of machinery with pinch points. ## COMMON CAUSES OF INJURIES FROM PINCH POINTS • Not paying attention to the location of hands and feet • Walking or working in areas with mobile equipment and fixed structures • Loose clothing, hair or jewelry getting caught in rotating parts or equipment • Poor condition of equipment and guarding - Dropping or carelessly handling materials or suspended loads • Not using the proper work procedures or tools • Reaching into moving equipment and machinery ## SAFETY CONTROLS FOR PINCH POINTS • Verify all guarding is in place and effective • Wear the appropriate personal protective equipment. Gloves, hi-vis clothing and heavy boots. • Identify potential pinch points before starting work by conducting a pre task inspection. • Stay in employee designated areas: Always make sure mobile equipment operators know your location. • Lockout/Tagout: Always verify electrical equipment is de-energized before starting any maintenance work • Alertness: Drowsiness leads to inattentive work habits and shortcuts • Operating manuals and work procedures: Always review the operating instructions/manuals before starting work; pinch points may also be identified in these documents. • Ensure all mobile equipment has working backup alarms and lighting before use. ## QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION • What are the most common sources of pinch points in your work area? • What improvements can be made to machine guarding? ## PRESENTER TIPS • Pre-read the Toolbox Talk. Your comfort level a…

[12] Toolbox Talk: Fall Protection

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# FALL PROTECTION Date Posted: 09/15/2016 ## FALL PROTECTION Falls are the most frequent cause of fatalities in construction and annually account for one of every three construction-related deaths. Fall protection trigger heights will vary depending on the task being performed. The "trigger height" is the minimum height at which fall protection is required. Know the trigger heights for your work and use fall protection as required. ## FALL PROTECTION REQUIRED REGARDLESS OF HEIGHT WAC 296-155-[redacted postal code] - Open sided floors, walkways, platforms, or runways above or adjacent to dangerous equipment. • Floor holes or floor openings into which persons can accidentally walk. • Falls into or onto impalement hazards, such as reinforcing steel (rebar), or exposed steel or wood stakes used to set forms. • Working from boom supported elevated work platforms. WAC 296-869-[redacted postal code] • Working in confined spaces. WAC 296-809-[redacted postal code] ## FALL PROTECTION AT FOUR FEET OR MORE WAC 296-155-[redacted postal code] • When employees are exposed to fall hazards of four feet or more to the ground or lower level when on a walking/working surface. • Walking/working surface is any area whose dimensions are 45 inches or greater in all directions, through which workers pass or conduct work. • When employees are using stilts • Where employees are working on platforms above the protection of a guardrail system, • While placing or tying reinforcing steel on a vertical face. • While working on a roof with a pitch greater than four in twelve (4:12) • While engaged in work, other than roofing work or leading edge work, on low pitched roofs • While working on a hazardous slope ## FALL PROTECTION AT TEN FEET OR MORE WAC 296-155-[redacted postal code] • Engaged in roofing work on a low pitched roof (4:12 or less) • Constructing a leading edge. • Working on any surface that does not meet the definition of a walking/working surface • Engaged …

[13] Toolbox Talk: Personal Protective Equipment

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# PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT Date Posted: 09/03/2016 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is gear that can be worn to help minimize or eliminate injury. It can be worn to help prevent sudden injuries or injuries occur over time. It is very important the user understands the intended purpose of the PPE and verifies that it fits properly. that ## When to Wear PPE • Before you resort to PPE, you should first: • Use administrative controls • Implement Engineering Controls • Use local exhaust or general ventilation vs. a respirator • Control dust with a wet process vs. dry • Install sound reducing devices to mechanical equipment • When these other two means of protection are exhausted you then will need to select the appropriate PPE. - Often times PPE will be used in conjunction with administrative and engineering controls for added protection. ## BASIC TYPES OF PPE Head: Hard hat, welders cap Hearing: Earmuffs, ear plugs or canal caps Face/Eye: Safety glasses, face shield, safety goggles. Hand: Gloves for general use, chemical use, electrical work or hot work. Body: Chaps, leathers, coveralls Foot Protection: Leather boots, Safety toe/steel toe boots Personal Protective Equipment is gear that is worn to help minimize or eliminate injury. It is very important the user understands the intended purpose of the PPE, verifies that the PPE fits properly and is adequate for the work to be performed. Remember: PPE is the last line of defense against a hazard. LEARN MORE ## QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION • Does the PPE you wear to perform your work fit properly and is it in good working condition? What can be done in your work area to improve the use of PPE? • What improvements can be made to reduce the need for PPE? ## PRESENTER TIPS • Pre-read the Toolbox Talk. Your comfort level and confidence will be higher if you know your topic. Discuss related tasks, work areas or events that make the Toolbox Talk relevant to your job site. • Involve the workers …

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