Competent Person for Excavating & Trenching (Group 1)
Wednesday, February 10, 2027 (9:00 AM - 3:00 PM) (CST)
Description
This program is offered on two consecutive days. Choose the date that works best for you—both sessions feature the same content. There is a limit of 20 people per class....REGISTER early!
WHO SHOULD ATTEND
- Linemen (Journeyman & Apprentices)
- Crew Leaders / Foremen
- Supervisors responsible for excavation work
- Utility construction and maintenance personnel
Excavation and trenching are among the most hazardous construction operations. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) Excavation standards, 29 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 1926, Subpart P, contain requirements for excavation and trenching operations. This booklet highlights key elements of the standards and describes safe work practices that can protect workers from cave-ins and other hazards.
This training program equips linemen and crew leaders with the knowledge and skills necessary to perform the duties of a “Competent Person” as defined by OSHA 29 CFR 1926 Subpart P (Excavations). Participants will learn how to identify hazards, classify soils, select protective systems, and ensure safe excavation and trenching practices in utility construction environments.
The course emphasizes real-world applications specific to overhead and underground electrical line work, including pole setting, trenching for conduit, and excavation around energized utilities.
What do the OSHA Excavation standards cover, and how do they protect workers?
The standards apply to all open excavations made in the Earth’s surface, including trenches. Following the requirements of the standards will prevent or greatly reduce the risk of cave-ins and other excavation-related incidents.
There is a limit of 20 people per class, so sign up soon!
This is an ECLIPSE approved ELECTIVE course. Anyone can take this course and is not limited to ECLIPSE participants.

1-1/4 Skill Builder Credits
Contact Wendy for pricing if your cooperative is not part of the Skill Builder pre-payment program.
4000 Campus Road
Eau Claire, WI 54703 United States