Jenkins Academy of Applied Technology
Access, atmospheric controls and emergency readiness Excavation and Trenching · v1.0.0 · October 22, 2026
Course developed by Todd Jerome Jenkins, MS, CSP.
Print / save as PDF Complete this worksheet using the actual workplace and current plan. A blank form or course score is not evidence that the action occurred. Record actual dates and observations. Print or save a completed copy before closing; entries are not automatically stored. Keep private health details out of this worksheet.
Excavation/task, responsible person, date and actual worker locations Trench 4 feet or more: safe egress and maximum 25-foot lateral travel; protected route and landing transition Structural ramp designer/qualification; walkway suitability and guardrails at 6 feet or more; applicable edge barriers Expected atmospheric hazards and source; greater-than-4-foot pre-entry testing trigger where hazardous air could reasonably be expected Instrument suitability, trained tester, manufacturer checks, sampling locations, actual results/time and acceptable conditions under the site plan Oxygen deficiency below 19.5%; flammable gas precautions above 20% LFL; other contaminants and stricter applicable limits/hot-work controls Ventilation/respiratory controls under applicable programs, continued testing frequency based on conditions, failure/alarm response Water/flow and collapse hazards; safe evacuation and stop-work communication Emergency location/contact/access, capable rescue arrangements and worker exclusion; no untrained entry or blind machine digging Where hazardous air exists or may develop: appropriate readily available rescue equipment, trained use and attendance while in use Bell-bottom or similar deep confined footing: harness/lifeline secure, separate from material lines and individually attended throughout entry Readiness gaps, correction and verification before assignment