Excavation Shoring

We use shoring in many construction operations. Excavation shoring, as concerns building excavations and trenches, is intended for the protection of workers and property and often the general public as well.
Workers in excavations must always be aware of the fact that much of their safety depends upon themselves. Even though there is a daily inspection of bracing systems, certain conditions may arise suddenly that come to the attention only of the man on the job. You must be able to recognize dangers when you see them and report them before they cause injury to yourself or those around you.
Accidents such as falls or being struck by objects in and about excavations and trenches often result because workers fail to follow the safety instructions that have been given them.
Shoring presents problems and hazards. That is another of the reasons why safety education has become so important in the field of construction.
One of the major purposes of shoring is to protect you while you work in the excavation. Bracing systems are intended to prevent sliding, slipping, caving, squeezing, or any other movement of the face of the excavation that could endanger men in the excavation.
At times, soil conditions make it possible to slope excavations; but in many cases, the sides must be supported by shoring. Regular physical inspection should be made of faces and banks where there may be loose materials. Any surface with dangerous material should be scaled. Workers should not work one above another where there is a danger of falling rock or materials.

Shoring of adjacent buildings may be necessary when their walls are weakened by excavation. Sidewalks if undermined during construction require shoring for the protection of the public and the men working below.
Always make use of stairways, ramps, or ladders when you enter or leave an excavation. Climbing or jumping is hazardous.
Because shoring is often subjected to considerable pressures, it demands regular inspection. Every workman engaged in excavation must take the responsibility of helping to check on shoring because your own safety is at stake. If you detect any unusual conditions, you must report them immediately.