Therefore , it ’ s important for excavation contractors to take the following measures to limit their premises and operations liability :
■ Develop appropriate safety protocols for excavation operations . This includes implementing programs for soil classification and identification , excavation safety plans and the use of excavation protection systems .
■ Make sure all operations are conducted in accordance with applicable OSHA regulations , including making sure trenching boxes are used for trenching activities when needed .
■ Ensure all excavation contractors are appropriately licensed and experienced for the task at hand before beginning work .
■ Require all contractors to utilize a detailed inspection checklist when conducting maintenance procedures .
■ Use signage to signal there is open trenching .
■ Develop and implement procedures for inspecting a job site before work begins . This includes determining where earth moving will occur , where spoil piles will be located and what areas are around the job site .
■ Ensure site security measures — such as fences or security personnel — prevent the general public from trespassing on job sites . If working around high vehicle traffic areas , ensure signs and barricades are utilized to protect workers , vehicle traffic and pedestrians .
Products — Completed Operations
Claims against excavation contractors tend to be more costly than they are frequent . Property damage — such as improperly settling backfill , soil erosion or damage to underground structures or lines — or injuries to a third party after contracted operations have been completed can result in serious and costly ramifications . To minimize completed operations exposures , excavation contractors should follow these protocols :
■ Ensure all areas have been marked and identified for any underground utilities . In addition , surveys should be completed prior to the start of digging or working . There should be a program in place to make sure these steps are completed .
■ Train operators on how to properly excavate or trench to prevent issues with soil compaction after the site excavation . Employees should also be trained to know the proper type of heavy equipment necessary for the job .
■ Confirm that the proper environmental protection measures were completed before and after the excavation of a job site to prevent erosion issues .
■ Conduct inspections of pipelines or utilities by a competent inspector , and consult necessary government officials to ensure all applicable state , federal and local ordinances were followed .
Employee Safety
As with any employer , excavation contractors must protect their employees from illnesses and injuries on the job . In regards to excavation operations , safeguarding employees from occupational
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