Excavation, Trenching & Shoring Competent Person Training
Mastering OSHA's Subpart P for Job Site Safety
Course Overview
Trenching and excavation work are among the most hazardous operations in the construction industry. To combat these risks, OSHA requires a designated Competent Person to be present on every excavation site to oversee all activities. This comprehensive course is designed to provide supervisors, crew leaders, and operators with the knowledge and authority needed to fulfill this critical safety role.
This program, offered nationwide, provides in-depth training on OSHA's Excavation Standard, 29 CFR 1926 Subpart P. Participants will learn how to identify existing and predictable hazards, classify soil types, select appropriate protective systems, and will gain the authority to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate dangers on the job site.
Who Should Be a Competent Person?
This training is essential for anyone responsible for excavation and trenching safety, including:
Supervisors, Foremen, and Crew Leaders
Backhoe, Trackhoe, and Excavator Operators
Safety Managers and Site Inspectors
Any personnel working in or around excavations and trenches.
Comprehensive Curriculum
Our curriculum is designed to provide a complete understanding of the Competent Person's duties and the intricacies of the OSHA standard.
The Role & Responsibilities of the Competent Person
Defining the authority to identify hazards and stop work.
Understanding the duty to take prompt corrective measures.
OSHA's Excavation Standard (29 CFR 1926.650-652)
A deep dive into the specific requirements of Subpart P.
Understanding when a registered professional engineer is required (for excavations 20 feet or deeper).
Conducting Daily Site Inspections
How to properly inspect excavations, adjacent areas, and protective systems before work begins and as needed throughout the day.
Recognizing conditions that could lead to a cave-in or other hazards.
Soil Classification & Analysis
Learning to classify soil types: Stable Rock, Type A, Type B, and Type C.
Performing required visual and manual tests (e.g., plasticity test, thumb penetration test) to determine soil stability.
Designing & Implementing Protective Systems
Sloping & Benching: Understanding proper angles for different soil types.
Shoring: Correct use of support systems like hydraulic and timber shoring.
Shielding: Proper installation and use of trench boxes and shields.
Additional Hazard Recognition
Identifying risks from hazardous atmospheres, water accumulation, and issues with site access and egress.
Certification
Upon successful completion of the course and passing the final examination, participants will receive a certificate acknowledging they have completed the necessary training to be designated as a Competent Person for excavations by their employer.
Course Details
Course Length: 6-8 hours (includes practical application exercises and discussions).
Prerequisites: None.
Instructor-to-Student Ratio: 1:25
Governing Standards: OSHA 29 CFR 1926 Subpart P; ANSI A10
Location: Nationwide
A designated Competent Person is not just a good idea—it's the law. Contact us today to schedule this life-saving training.