Trenching & Excavating Safety: Competent Person - Cheshire

Date: 1/21/2026 7:30 AM - 1/21/2026 3:00 PM

Location: Cheshire Community House

191 Church St
Cheshire, Massachusetts

Capacity:

39/40



Overview

image of trench

Description

What does it mean to be a “Competent Person” in Trenching and Excavation Safety? The OSHA excavation standard states that a competent person is: “one who is capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards in the surroundings, or working conditions which are unsanitary, hazardous or dangerous to employees and has authorization to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them.” OSHA states that you must have specific training in and knowledge to perform soil analyses, determine the protective system to be used in excavations and conduct daily inspections.  

This workshop will present individuals with training in the following areas:

  • Conducting site inspections

  • Establishing proper access & egress

  • Identifying potential environmental hazards

  • Determining soil composition & classification

  • Implementing protective systems (sloping, shoring, shielding)

Who Should Attend

Public Works professionals, both management and operations, involved in trenching and excavation who desire “competent person” proficiency in trenching/excavations as it applies to OSHA regulations.

Please download the handouts prior to class.

Registration 7:30 AM. Class begins at 8:00 AM.
 
Accommodations for Disabilities: UMTC endeavors to provide an inclusive learning environment for all. If you require special services or arrangements to fully participate in this workshop, please email Katie Sabourin or call 413-468-0093 at least 14 days prior to the event. Such services are provided free of charge. 

 
Attendees
First Name Affiliation
Corey Town of Cheshire
Corey Town of Cheshire
Adam City of Pittsfield
Andon Town of Williamstown Water Dept.
Anthony City of Chicopee
Brandon Town of Charlemont
Brandon Town of Charlemont
Brennan Town of Dalton
Brent Town of Cheshire
Chad Town of Williamstown DPW
Chris Town of Williamstown DPW
Chris Town of Williamstown DPW
Craig City of Pittsfield
Daniel Town of Cheshire
Derrick City of Northampton DPW
Ed Town of Cheshire
Elbert City of Pittsfield
Enders City of Chicopee
Eric Town of Otis
Evan Town of Williamstown Water Dept.
James Town of Dalton
Jeff Town of Charlemont
Jordan City of Pittsfield
Joseph Town of Williamstown DPW
Justin Town of Williamstown DPW
Kirk Town of Cheshire
Lucan Town of Cheshire
Mark Town of Williamstown DPW
Matt Town of Williamstown DPW
Michael Town of Williamstown DPW
Michael Town of Williamstown DPW
Mike Town of Cheshire
Nemesio Town of Needham DPW
Robert Town of Williamstown Water Dept.
Scott City of Northampton
Scott Town of Charlemont
Scott City of Northampton
Tom Town of Cheshire
William Town of Charlemont
Instructors
  • Michael Smith
    Technical Training Specialist at UMass Transportation Center (UMTC)