This course focuses on the operations and safety aspects of excavation and trenching. Participants are introduced to practical soil mechanics and its relationship to the stability of shored/unshored slopes and walls. Various types of shoring (wood timbers and hydraulic) are explained. Testing methods are demonstrated, allowing students to use instruments such as penetrometers, torvane shears, and engineering rods. Upon successful completion of this course, students will have the ability to assess employer safety with the current standard, utilize soil-testing methods to classify soil types, determine protective systems for excavation operations, and determine training requirements. Minimum student contact hours: 20