Who is responsible for making excavation inspections?

The responsibility for making excavation inspections falls to a competent person. In the context of OSHA regulations, a competent person is defined as someone who is knowledgeable about the excavation process and its related hazards. This individual has the authority to take prompt corrective actions when unsafe conditions are identified.

The designation of a competent person includes having the ability to identify potential hazards in excavations, such as the risk of cave-ins, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. This role is critical because timely inspections by a competent person can help prevent accidents that may lead to injuries or fatalities on the job site. It's also important to note that the competent person must have sufficient training and experience to recognize the various conditions and risks associated with excavation work.

While contractors, certified inspectors, and safety officers may also play important roles in overseeing worksite safety, it is specifically the competent person who is tasked with the responsibility of conducting excavation inspections and implementing safety measures.