Dewatering and Pumping Operations
Construction · Ver en español
Talking points
- Water accumulation in excavations must be controlled continuously. Standing water weakens trench walls and can trigger sudden cave-ins.
- Dewatering pumps must be sized for the expected inflow. A pump that cannot keep up creates a false sense of security while water undermines the soil.
- Electrical equipment near water creates an electrocution hazard. Use GFCI protection on all pumps and power equipment in wet areas.
- Discharge water must be directed away from the excavation and away from other work areas. Check environmental permits for discharge requirements.
- If water is rising faster than it can be controlled, evacuate the excavation. Workers should never remain in a trench where water levels are increasing.
Ask the crew
Is our dewatering system keeping up with the inflow today — and where is the discharge going?
Standards this talk is built on
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Sign-in sheet
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