Danger in the Trenches: Excavation Shortcuts Cost Lives
David A. Ward Sr.
A brief lapse in judgment or a shortcut to save a little time could result in tragedies that impact workers and their loved ones forever.
How many times do we see utility workers, sewer workers or construction workers working unprotected in trenches?
Trenches literally are filled with a variety of potential safety and environmental hazards. Cave-ins perhaps are the most feared trenching hazard as one cubic yard of soil can weigh as much as a car. Asphyxiation due to lack of oxygen in a confined space is a major risk. So are inhalation of toxic fumes and drowning.
