• Understand OSHA requirements for excavation and trenching operations.
• Identify excavation hazards—including cave-ins, soil instability, water, utilities, and atmospheric risks.
• Perform soil classification using OSHA-approved visual and manual tests.
• Select and evaluate protective systems (sloping, benching, shoring, shielding).
• Conduct required daily inspections and document findings as the Competent Person.
• Recognize changing conditions requiring immediate corrective action.
• Develop hazard-control strategies to prevent excavation-related injuries.