Excavation is required in our line of work. It’s extremely dangerous, and because of that, every precaution needs to be taken to ensure lives are protected. The OSHA[1] and similar associations are adamant about the procedures and equipment required to keep our workers safe. Regretfully, fatalities continue to occur.
As a whole, the construction industry needs to stand united in support of all safety initiatives.
If you haven’t heard of a Safety Stand Down, NUCA[2] describes it:
A Safety Stand Down presents the opportunity for employers to talk directly to employees and others about safety. These Stand Downs will focus on trench & excavation hazards and reinforce the importance of using trench protective systems and protecting workers from trenching hazards.
PipeSak® products have a 4X safety factor, and all of our products are designed to be installed without workers in the trench.
- PipeSaks are filled out-of-trench. Its design allows for installation over laid pipe with a loader or excavator, with no need for personnel in the trench.
- The PipePillo® is easily installed either by securing it to the pipe before the pipe is lowered into the trench, by using our specialized installation tool, or by sliding it down a 2×4.
There’s no need for workers to be in the trench with our products. However, we are not the only ones on the ROW and we stand with NUCA & OHSA in supporting this National Trench Safety Stand Down Week. Anyone who wants to prevent trenching and excavation hazards in the workplace can participate in the Stand Down.
We encourage everyone from utility contractors, highway contractors, military workers, unions, associations, educational institutions, safety equipment manufacturers and everyone inbetween to participate.
NUCA and OSHA are recognizing Toolbox Talks, safety videos watched, and safety classes held during the week of June 18-23, 2018 for it’s 3rd annual blitz. Certificates of participation will be provided if you submit a Trench Safety Stand Down Completion form[3]. Details, as well as Toolbox Talks, fact sheets, and other stand down materials can be found on the NUCA website[4]
In 2017, NUCA’s Trench Safety Stand Down reached more than 10,000 workers. This year, we hope to increase that number. There is an upward trend of trench deaths and injuries and we all have to contribute to reverse it. Lives depend on it.
Please join us in spreading the word and providing training on the perils and precautions workers need to know to keep everyone on the job site safe.
[1] OSHA[2] NUCA[3] Trench Safety Stand Down Completion form[4] NUCA Toolbox Talks, Fact Sheets & Materials[5] Trenching and Excavation Safety, OSHA