Questions and Answers
What does OSHA define a trench as?
A narrow excavation made below the surface of the ground in which the depth is greater than the width - with the width not to exceed 15 feet.
How does OSHA define an excavation?
Any man-made cavity, depression, trench, or cut in the earth's surface formed by earth removal.
There is usually some form of warning before a cave-in.
False
What methods does OSHA require for protecting employees from cave-ins?
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According to OSHA, for every foot of depth in a simple slope excavation of 20 feet or less, how far must the trench be excavated back?
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Who must design or approve trench boxes or shields?
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When is shoring or shielding most often used in excavations?
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In addition to cave-ins, what other hazards are excavation workers exposed to?
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Under what condition are employees allowed to work above others on the face of a sloped or benched excavation?
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What does OSHA require to prevent surface water from entering an excavation?
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Study Notes
Trench and Excavation Definitions
- A trench is defined as a narrow excavation below ground with a depth greater than width, not exceeding 15 feet in width.
- An excavation is any man-made cavity or depression in the earth formed by removing earth.
Cave-in Warnings
- There is typically no warning before a cave-in occurs, indicating that workers must always be vigilant.
Protective Measures for Excavations
- OSHA mandates protection against cave-ins through methods such as sloping, benching, shoring, and shielding.
Slope Excavation Guidelines
- For simple slope excavations 20 feet or less deep, a back excavation of 1.5 feet is required for every foot of depth.
Design Approval for Trench Boxes
- Trench boxes or shields must be designed or approved by a registered professional engineer to ensure safety.
Conditions for Shoring and Shielding
- Shoring or shielding is frequently required when the excavation's location or depth makes sloping impractical.
Additional Hazards in Excavation Work
- Workers in excavation are at risk not only from cave-ins but also from falls, falling loads, and moving equipment.
Safety Regulations for Worker Positioning
- Employees are not allowed to work above others on sloped or benched excavations unless those below have overhead protection from falling objects.
Water Management Requirements
- To prevent water from entering excavations and ensure adequate drainage, OSHA standards require the implementation of water removal equipment, diversion ditches, dikes, or other appropriate methods.
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Description
Test your knowledge of trench and excavation definitions and safety measures. Understand the importance of protective measures against cave-ins and the guidelines for slope excavations and trench box designs. This quiz is essential for professionals working in construction and excavation.
