|
OSHA Questions for Excavator’s Competent Person
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires a “competent
person” to be assigned at an excavation site if workers will be entering the
excavation. If the site is visited by OSHA, the inspector may interview the
competent person. Here are some typical interview questions:
Confined Space
-
Does the trench or excavation meet the definition of a “confined space?”
-
Is the competent person trained to recognize and evaluate confined space
hazards?
-
Is the competent person capable of specifying safety control measures?
Inspections
-
Has the competent person conducted daily inspections?
-
Where and when were the inspections conducted?
-
Does the competent person have the authority to stop work?
Protective System
-
Is the excavation less than 5-ft (1.5 m) in depth?
-
Has the competent person examined the ground for indications of potential
cave-in?
-
Has the competent person classified the soil?
-
What visual test did the competent person perform for soil analysis?
-
What manual test did the competent person perform for soil analysis?
-
Did the competent person recommend the proper sloping?
Water Conditions
-
Is dewatering equipment used on site?
-
Has the excavation been subjected to heavy rainfall?
Ramps
-
Is the contractor using a structural ramp?
-
Is the ramp designed for people, or is it also used to provide equipment access
and egress?
-
Was the ramp designed by a competent person or professional engineer?
Conclusion
-
Has the competent person performed according to the standard?
-
Is the competent person authorized to take prompt corrective measures to
eliminate hazards?
COPYRIGHT ©2002, ISO Services, Inc.
|