Construction workers have to deal with potentially deadly hazards on a daily basis. They work in proximity to electrical supply and heavy machinery. They may end up exposed to toxic substances, like asbestos, that could leave them ill.
Working at a significant elevation or below grade can also lead to serious injuries or worse. Workers in trenches may not be as vigilant as those working at a significant elevation regarding their safety. They may fail to recognize that they are one mistake away from a potentially deadly incident. What makes trench work so hazardous?
The possibility of a cave-in
Trenches are dangerous because soil can move with little warning. Precipitation and moving machinery can cause soil to shift unexpectedly with major consequences for nearby professionals.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a square yard of dirt is enough to cause a fatal crush incident, as it could weigh more than 3,000 pounds. Workers are also at risk of suffocating in a cave-in scenario.
Visibility issues
Working below ground level (below grade) is also dangerous in part because other people may struggle to see these workers. Those operating machinery may get too close to the trench and could strike workers or knock items into the trench. Workers below grade may not be in a position to identify hazards until they are too close to avoid.
Construction incidents in trenches are often preventable with proper training and safety equipment, including trench boxes and other reinforcements for trenches. Seeking compensation is often an option when construction professionals are injured in trenching incidents.