Jurisdiction resources / United States
Working alone in Tennessee
A starting point for construction safety and state OSHA.
Authority and scope
Construction safety and state OSHA
Tennessee operates an OSHA-approved state plan covering most private-sector and state and local government workplaces, with exceptions. Tennessee OSHA provides construction safety resources, including trenching and excavation guidance for worksite hazards.
This is one starting point for the work described, not a complete list of state or federal requirements. Check which agency and rules apply to the employer and task.
Put the guidance to work
Questions for your plan
How will the team identify excavation hazards and arrange on-site protection and emergency response before work begins?
What to review
Review TOSHA requirements for the actual excavation and provide required on-site protections, inspections and rescue planning. Remote monitoring does not replace protective systems or competent-person duties.
Some work requires another person on site. Remote monitoring does not replace that requirement or the organization's own assessment, training and emergency procedures.
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Official sources
Sources listed November 4, 2026. Links and requirements can change.
Discuss your work
Talk through your team's plan
Be Safe can explain how check-ins, human monitoring and Emergency Contacts fit your team's work. Your organization remains responsible for determining its requirements and procedures.
Contact Be Safe