How can employers protect workers from hazardous atmospheres inside excavations?
Atmospheric testing is required before workers enter an excavation greater than 4 feet (1.22 meters) in depth where an oxygen deficiency or a hazardous atmosphere is present or could reasonably be expected, such as in excavations in landfill areas or excavations in areas where hazardous substances are stored nearby. If there are any hazardous conditions present, the employer must ensure that adequate precautions are taken to prevent employee exposure to those conditions. Such precautions include providing workers with proper respiratory protection or ventilation. In addition, when controls are used to reduce the level of atmospheric contaminants to acceptable levels, testing must be conducted as often as necessary to ensure that the atmosphere remains safe.
If hazardous atmospheric conditions exist or may reasonably be expected to develop in an excavation, the employer must ensure the ready availability of emergency rescue equipment, such as breathing apparatus, a safety harness and line, or a basket stretcher. This equipment must be attended when in use.
Note: In addition to the Excavation standards’ provisions on hazardous atmospheres in excavations, OSHA’s Confined Spaces in Construction standard (29 CFR Part 1926, Subpart AA) applies to non-excavation work within a confined space located in an excavation. These standards are intended to complement each other and address two distinct hazards: hazardous atmospheres in excavations and the additional hazards associated with confined spaces located within excavations. For example, the Confined Spaces in Construction standard covers entry into a prefabricated storm drain, other pipe, or manhole even if located at the bottom of an open excavation.
At Ron Meyer & Associate Excavating, Inc, we’ve been providing underground and commercial construction to private and commercial businesses for 40+ years. As the general contractor or subcontractor, our experienced foremen, equipment operators, pipe layers, truck drivers and well-maintained equipment fleet make us an undeniable choice for your excavating services. Let’s talk about your project!
Sources:
- https://www.osha.gov/Publications/osha2226.pdf
As 45 years of experience as an underground/site contactor and a third generation contractor, Ron takes time to go through each individual project with the supervisor and is responsible for all scheduling and equipment logistics. He’s also involved in all troubleshooting for projects.