Lagging
Lagging is a safety and support technique used in excavation and construction work. It involves placing wooden boards or steel plates between support beams to prevent soil and debris from falling into an excavation site. Think of it like creating strong walls in a hole to keep workers safe and the ground from caving in. This is an essential skill for excavation workers and construction teams who work on deep foundations, trenches, or underground structures. When you see this term on a resume, it shows that the candidate has experience with safety-critical underground construction work.
Examples in Resumes
Installed Lagging systems in 20+ major excavation projects ensuring zero cave-ins
Supervised crews during Lagging installation for foundation work on commercial buildings
Maintained safety standards while performing Lagging and shoring operations
Typical job title: "Excavation Workers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Excavation Workers
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Training Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you determine the appropriate lagging system for different soil types?
Expected Answer: A senior worker should explain how they assess soil conditions, choose appropriate materials, and consider factors like depth, water table, and nearby structures to select the right lagging method.
Q: Describe a challenging lagging project you managed and how you solved problems that arose.
Expected Answer: Look for answers that demonstrate leadership, problem-solving, and safety management in complex situations with multiple teams or difficult ground conditions.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What safety procedures do you follow when installing lagging?
Expected Answer: Should describe proper inspection procedures, PPE requirements, communication protocols, and safety checks before and during installation.
Q: How do you maintain lagging systems during long-term projects?
Expected Answer: Should explain monitoring procedures, signs of potential issues, and maintenance routines to ensure ongoing stability and safety.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is the purpose of lagging in excavation work?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that lagging prevents soil collapse and protects workers in excavations by supporting the walls of the dig.
Q: What basic tools and materials are used in lagging installation?
Expected Answer: Should identify common materials like wooden boards, steel plates, support beams, and basic tools used in installation.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of lagging installation
- Knowledge of safety procedures
- Ability to use basic construction tools
- Following supervisor instructions
Mid (2-5 years)
- Independent installation of lagging systems
- Soil type assessment
- Safety inspection procedures
- Equipment operation
Senior (5+ years)
- Project planning and supervision
- Complex installation management
- Team leadership
- Problem-solving in difficult conditions
Red Flags to Watch For
- No OSHA safety training or certification
- Lack of knowledge about basic soil types and behaviors
- No experience with emergency procedures
- Poor understanding of proper installation sequences
Related Terms
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