Safety When Using Aluminum Hydraulic Shores in Excavations
The Problem
Excavation work is one of the most hazardous activities in construction. Cave-ins are a leading cause of fatalities, and using aluminum hydraulic shores improperly can lead to system failure, injuries, or even death. Today, we’ll discuss the dangers associated with hydraulic shores, how to use them correctly, and the OSHA requirements that help protect us all.
Identify the Hazards
- Cave-ins: Working in unprotected or improperly shored trenches can lead to workers being buried or trapped.
- Hydraulic System Failures: Leaking hydraulic fluid or damaged components can cause shores to collapse.
- Unsafe Entry/Exit: Entering or exiting a trench without proper ladders or through unprotected areas increases the risk of accidents.
- Falling Materials: Tools, debris, or equipment falling into the trench can strike workers.
Safety Practices and Preventative Measures
1. Entering and Exiting a Shored Trench
- Competent Person Clearance: Never enter a trench until the Competent Person has confirmed it is safe.
- Avoid Unprotected Areas: Do not move from a protected section of the trench into an unshored area.
- Use Approved Access: Always use a ladder or approved access points. Never climb on the spreaders of the hydraulic shores.
2. Inspecting Hydraulic Shores
- Pre-Use Inspections: Check for:
- Bent components, broken welds, or hydraulic fluid leaks.
- Integrity of the cylinders, rails, and any attached plywood sheeting.
- Report Issues: Immediately report any damage to the Competent Person.
- Check for Fluid Leaks: Leaking fluid can cause the hydraulic shores to lose pressure and fail.
3. Shoring Installation and Use
- Confirm Setup: Ensure hydraulic shores are installed securely, and the system is functioning properly before entering the trench.
- Adjustments: Excavating up to 2 feet below the bottom of the shores may be necessary, but only with approval from the Competent Person.
- Monitoring Stability: Regularly check for shifting, unbalanced loads, or shore instability during the work.
4. General Safety
- Never Adjust Without Approval: Only the Competent Person should approve or make adjustments to the hydraulic shores.
- Monitor Throughout: Regular monitoring of the shores ensures their continued stability during work.
Real-Life Case or Scenario
Recently, a crew ignored pre-use inspections and failed to notice a small hydraulic fluid leak in one of the shores. Partway through the excavation, the system collapsed, resulting in a worker being partially buried. Fortunately, they were rescued in time, but this incident could have been deadly. Regular inspections and monitoring are critical to preventing these types of accidents.
Employee Responsibilities
- Inspect hydraulic shores and equipment before use.
- Follow proper entry and exit procedures—always use ladders or approved access.
- Report damaged equipment, hydraulic leaks, or unsafe conditions to the Competent Person immediately.
- Never enter unprotected or unstable sections of the trench.
Employer Responsibilities
- Provide properly maintained aluminum hydraulic shores.
- Ensure regular inspections are conducted by a Competent Person.
- Train employees on trench safety and proper use of shoring systems.
- Respond promptly to reported issues, including damaged equipment.
Discussion & Questions
- "Has anyone ever encountered issues with aluminum hydraulic shores during an excavation?"
- "What do you look for when inspecting shoring equipment before use?"
- Allow employees to share experiences and address any questions or concerns.
Commitment/Action Plan
Today, let’s commit to always inspecting aluminum hydraulic shores before use, following safe entry and exit procedures, and reporting any concerns immediately to the Competent Person. These steps are simple but can save lives.
Wrap-Up
Aluminum hydraulic shores are an effective protective system, but they are only as safe as we make them. By following the proper procedures, inspections, and safety measures, we can prevent cave-ins and ensure a safe workplace. Thank you for your attention and commitment to safety.
Standards Overview
- Protective Systems: OSHA (29 CFR 1926.652) requires protective systems, such as aluminum hydraulic shores, in excavations deeper than 5 feet to prevent cave-ins.
- Equipment Inspections: OSHA (29 CFR 1926.651) mandates regular inspections of all excavation equipment to ensure it’s in good condition and functioning properly.
- Failure to comply with these regulations can result in accidents, injuries, or fines.
Disclaimer
“The information provided in this toolbox talk is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional legal, safety, or regulatory advice. The information presented is based on best practices and general industry standards but may not apply to all workplace situations.
It is the responsibility of the employer, supervisors, and workers to ensure compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and standards, including but not limited those of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Site App Pro, its affiliates, agents or representatives, as well as the authors, presenters, and distributors of this toolbox talk assume no liability for the use or application of the information provided.
Participants are encouraged to consult appropriate legal, safety, or regulatory professionals to address specific concerns or questions. Always follow your organization's policies and procedures for workplace safety and hazard mitigation.”
All Rights Reserved Site App Pro 2024