New resources for keeping workers safe while engaged in trenching and excavating activities are available from the OSHA website. The resources include a short reference for workers () and a poster () that summarize guidance for preventing trench collapses. A on trenching and excavation provides more information about controlling the hazards of trenching and excavating. Most of the new resources are available in both English and Spanish. The resources are part of OSHA’s update of its National Emphasis Program on preventing trenching and excavation collapses. The NEP was initiated in 1985. "Removing workers from and helping workers identify trenching hazards is critical," said Deputy Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health Loren Sweatt. "OSHA will concentrate the full force of enforcement and compliance assistance resources to help ensure that employers are addressing these serious hazards." Reducing fatalities from trenching and excavation is one of OSHA’s “priority goals” for 2018. The agency has reported that 37 workers died in 2016 from trench collapses or cave-ins, a significant increase from the previous five years. Read more about the NEP on OSHA's .