Trench shields must be installed to prevent lateral movement in a collapse.

OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov.

October 20, 1999

Mr. John Randall
Water Utility Safety Coordinator
Water Pollution Control Facilities
7525 Bertram Road SE
Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52403-7111

 

Re: 1926.652(g)(1)(ii); trench boxes/shield systems for trenches

Dear Mr. Randall:

Permissibility of installing a trench shield so that the top is flush with the surface.

OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov.

November 14, 2003 [Reviewed May 31, 2018]

Mr. Thomas A. Bush, CSP
Manager - EH&S Consultant
OSEA 3748 South Park Avenue
Buffalo, NY 14219-1802

Re 29 CFR 1926.652(g)(1)(ii)

Dear Mr. Bush:

This is in response to your letter dated April 10, 2003, to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) concerning trench shields (29 CFR 1926.652) being held flush with the top of the trench and road surface. We apologize for the delay in providing this response.

Allowable gap requirement between the trench shield and trench sides.

OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov.

March 11, 2013

Ken Edwards
Technical Director
Association of Equipment Manufacturers
6737 W. Washington Street, Suite 2400
Milwaukee, WI 53214

Dear Mr. Edwards: