Safety Equipped, Inc.

OSHA Competent Person Requirements:

Excavating is recognized as one of the most hazardous construction operations.  Most workers caught in a cave-in are either seriously injured or killed.

OSHA requires that there be a "Competent Person" present whenever a worker enters an excavation or trench.  Under Massachusetts General Laws, a "Competent Person" must be present during any excavation operation.

OSHA defines a "Competent Person" as "one who by way of training and/or experience, is knowledgeable of applicable OSHA Standards, capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards in the surroundings or working conditions which are unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to employees, and who has the authority to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate those hazards.

• Understand the role of a "Competent Person" in excavation operations.
• Recognize Excavation Hazards that could result in a cave-in.
• Have knowledge of the OSHA Standard pertaining to excavations.
• Understand important terminology, definitions and numbers used in excavation operations.
• Demonstrate how to determine soil types.
• Understand the use of protective systems (sloping, shoring and shielding) to protect workers from potential cave-ins.
• Understand how to coordinate a trench rescue procedure.

• Course Manual "Trenching & Excavation" Reference & Training Guide.
• OSHA Standard for Excavation (Subpart P 1926.650)
• Excavation Checklist.
• Trenching Log and various handouts.
• Certificate of Training Wallet Card.