2025 Trench Safety Stand Down Resources

Trench Safety Stand Down 2025

June 16–20, 2025

Trenching is one of construction’s most hazardous activities. The NUCA Trench Safety Stand Down is a nationwide effort to improve jobsite safety through focused discussions and awareness. National Trench Safety proudly supports this initiative by providing practical resources and encouraging participation among customers, contractors, municipalities, and our teams.

Get Training Backed by Real-World Experience

NTS offers hands-on training designed to improve safety on your jobsites year-round. Courses cover excavation safety, competent person certification, confined space entry, fall protection, and more. Classes are taught by experienced trainers and available at NTS branches nationwide.

View NTS Training Calendar

What Is a Stand Down?

A trench safety stand down is a brief, scheduled safety meeting to focus your crew’s attention on trenching and excavation hazards. Hold these talks at the jobsite, yard, or wherever your team meets. Use this time to clearly discuss safe trenching practices and accident prevention.

What to Cover

Keep your discussion short and focused. Consider covering:

  • Competent Person responsibilities
  • Identifying and classifying soil
  • Shielding vs. shoring
  • Proper use and inspection of trench boxes
  • Common jobsite hazards and prevention strategies

Need help getting started? Check out the Excavation Safety Stand Down Outline.

How to Participate 

  1. Select a date between June 16–20.
  2. Hold a safety meeting with your crew focused on trench safety.
  3. Use the NTS-provided outline or your company’s internal safety resources.
  4. Submit your participation directly to NUCA.

Visit NUCA’s Stand Down Page to Report Participation

 

 

Share your team’s participation on LinkedIn by tagging @National Trench Safety and using #NTSTrenchSafetyWeek to spread awareness.

Need Help?

Contact your nearest NTS branch for support with trench safety resources, planning, or jobsite equipment.

Find Your Local Branch

 

Disclaimer: This material is provided for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, regulatory guidance, or a comprehensive safety plan. National Trench Safety makes no warranties or representations regarding the accuracy or applicability of this content to any specific situation. Employers are responsible for complying with all applicable federal, state, and local safety regulations and for providing appropriate training to their employees.