Use of Trench Boxes for Worker Protection

Abstract

Work in trenches can be very dangerous if workers are not provided with adequate protection against trench cave-ins. One method of providing for worker protection in trenches is with the use of trench boxes, widely used, engineered structures that permit workers to work safely in trenches. A study of the experiences of utility contractors with the use of trench boxes provided several notable findings that can help in implementing safe work practices in trenches. Most safety problems with the use of trench boxes are attributed to human error or judgment. For example, several respondents commented that workers were observed exiting from the trench boxes by walking up the backfill, a practice that exposes workers to the dangers of trench cave-ins. The importance of training was also evident in the results. Firms with better safety performance records conducted specialized training courses for their employees, and they provided more frequent training courses.