In construction, safety isn’t just a guideline—it’s a commitment. OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) standards are vital for creating safer work environments and minimizing risk on jobsites, especially in high-risk areas like excavation and trenching. At Westside Construction Group, we prioritize OSHA compliance on every project, ensuring our sites are safe and hazard-free.

Why OSHA Compliance Matters

OSHA compliance is more than meeting legal requirements. It’s about safeguarding our teams, clients, and communities from the dangers present in construction. Some of the key reasons for strict compliance include:

1. Minimizing Workplace Hazards
   • Hazards in construction range from falls and electrical risks to trench collapses. Adhering to OSHA standards helps to prevent accidents and reduce the risk of injury. Westside’s team follows OSHA’s comprehensive safety standards, identifying and addressing potential hazards on every site.
2. Promoting Safe Excavation Practices
   • Trenching and excavation are among the riskiest construction activities. OSHA standards require inspections by a Competent Person and protective systems like shoring or shielding for trenches over five feet deep. At Westside, our team includes trained Competent Persons who conduct daily site inspections, ensuring that all trenching meets OSHA standards.
3. Improving Efficiency and Project Outcomes
   • A safe jobsite is also a productive one. When safety protocols are in place, crews can work more efficiently, knowing they are protected. By maintaining an OSHA-compliant environment, Westside Construction Group reduces project delays and enhances productivity.

OSHA’s Key Standards in Construction and Excavation

Compliance involves several essential standards that every construction company must uphold. Here’s a breakdown of the primary OSHA guidelines relevant to Westside’s projects:

• Trenching and Shoring Requirements (29 CFR 1926.651 and 1926.652)
  For trenches over five feet deep, OSHA mandates protective systems to prevent cave-ins. Trenches deeper than 20 feet require a design from a registered professional engineer. Westside uses shoring, sloping, and shielding techniques to meet these standards.
• Competent Person Requirements
  Before any work begins, OSHA requires daily trench inspections by a Competent Person. This individual is trained to recognize hazards, monitor trench conditions, and make quick safety decisions. Westside Construction Group staffs each site with Competent Persons to ensure compliance and jobsite safety.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
  OSHA mandates PPE, including hard hats, gloves, eye protection, and high-visibility vests. At Westside, we enforce PPE use to protect against falls, impacts, and other onsite risks.

How Westside Construction Group Exceeds OSHA Standards

At Westside Construction Group, we don’t just meet OSHA standards—we exceed them. Our teams are thoroughly trained in safety protocols, and we use advanced equipment and technology to monitor jobsite conditions. By integrating these measures, we provide a safer, more efficient work environment for every project.

If you’re looking for a construction partner who prioritizes safety and OSHA compliance, contact Westside Construction Group today. Our dedication to compliance and jobsite excellence makes us a reliable choice for projects across the Northeast.