After several months of review on the state and federal levels, MIOSHA has released the new Part 9 standard, Excavation, Trenching, and Shoring. There are several changes that contractors should be aware of, most notably:
•Protective systems for use in excavations of more than 20 feet in depth must be designed by a registered engineer.
•The term “qualified person” was replaced with “competent person” throughout most of the standard.
•An employee shall not be allowed in shields when shields are being installed, removed, or moved vertically (The new rule allows employees to remain in the shields while they are being moved horizontally).
• Sidewalks, pavements, and appurtenant structures shall not be undermined unless a support system or another method of protection is provided to protect employees from the possible collapse of such structures. (The new rule is the same as the old standard, it just expands the rule to all pavements and appurtenant structures).
MITA is in the process of producing an updated Trench Safety Handbook that will be available soon. MITA will also be providing members with Safety and Health guides that reflect all the new changes. All future MITA excavation training will be based on the new standard.
To access the new standard click here.
If you have any questions, please contact MITA Director of Safety and Compliance, Greg Brooks at 517-507-2531 or gregbrooks@thinkmita.org
