Excavation stand-down

Suggestions to prepare for a successful stand-down event

1. Try to start preparing early. Designate a coordinator to organize the stand-down. If you have multiple worksites, identify the team that will lead the stand-down at each site.

2. Think about asking your subcontractors, owner, architects, engineers or others associated with your project to participate in the stand-down.

3. Consider reviewing your excavation safety program (goals, training, equipment). This will help provide a more effective stand-down.

4. Develop presentations or activities that will meet your needs. Decide what information will be best for your workplace and employees. The meeting should provide information to employees about hazards, protective methods and the company's safety policies, goals and expectations. Hands-on exercises (a worksite walkaround, equipment checks, etc.) can increase retention.

5. Decide when to conduct the stand-down and how long it will last. Decide if the stand-down will take place over a break, a lunch period or some other time.

6. Promote the stand-down. Try to make it interesting to employees. Some employers find that serving snacks increases participation.

7. Conduct your stand-down. Try to make it positive and interactive. Let employees talk about their experiences and encourage them to make suggestions.

8. Follow up after your stand-down. If you learned something that could improve your excavation safety program, consider making changes.