In tight soil conditions, what is the best trench protection method?

In tight soil conditions, benching is the most effective trench protection method because it involves creating a series of steps or benches in the trench walls, which helps to reduce the risk of soil collapse. This method is particularly beneficial in unstable or cohesive soils, as the steps help support the walls and minimize pressure on the exposed surfaces.

Benching allows for better distribution of weight along the trench walls and provides a safer working environment for personnel. It can be especially useful when dealing with varying soil conditions, as it accommodates the assessment of trench stability and soil structural integrity.

While the other methods, such as sloping (which involves angling the trench walls) and boxing (adding structural support via a framework), can be effective under certain circumstances, they may not provide the same level of stability and safety in tight or challenging soil conditions. Thus, benching is favored in those situations, as it addresses both stability and worker safety effectively.