When does a trench or excavation need shoring, sloping, benching, shielding, or other protection from cave-ins?

• If five feet deep or more. • When less than five feet deep, similar protection may be needed if the competent person has not yet inspected the excavation and determined it is safe from cave-ins. 3. An excavation can cave in if weakened by rain, snow, or other water. What precautions do we have to take in wet conditions? • As a general rule, don't work in accumulated water. • The competent person must re-inspect after each rainstorm or snowstorm. 4. What do you need to know about utility lines when excavating? • The area should be marked by the Underground Service Alert (USA) system to show location of underground utility lines. • Make sure you're not interfering with any kind of utility--underground, overhead, or on the surface. Watch out for electrical, gas, telephone, water, and sewer lines. • Keep all equipment at least six feet from any electric power line (more distance for very high voltage). Remember that electricity can arc. 5. Where should spoil go? How far back from the ...  more