At what minimum depth must an excavation be sloped or protected to guard against cave-ins?

An excavation must be sloped or protected at a minimum depth of 5 feet to guard against cave-ins. This requirement is based on safety regulations that acknowledge the increasing risk of collapse as the depth of the excavation increases. At depths of 5 feet or more, the soil becomes likely to shift under certain conditions, which poses a significant risk to workers inside the excavation.

Slope and protective systems are essential in minimizing this risk by providing stability to the excavation walls. Proper training and adherence to OSHA guidelines ensure that excavation sites are managed safely, protecting workers from potentially fatal accidents associated with cave-ins. The attention to depth helps ensure that any excavation exceeding this critical threshold is adequately evaluated for potential hazards, thus enhancing workplace safety.