What type of excavation requires extra caution due to the risk of cave-ins?

Deep excavations require extra caution due to the significant risk of cave-ins. This risk is heightened by the sheer depth of the excavation, which can create unstable soil conditions. As the depth increases, the lateral pressure on the walls of the excavation also rises, making it more likely that the walls could collapse, particularly in loose or poorly compacted soils. Safety measures such as shoring, sloping, or shielding are often mandated for deep excavations to ensure the safety of workers and equipment.

While shallow, wide, and narrow excavations may have their own safety considerations, the likelihood and severity of cave-ins are most pronounced in deep excavations, making this type of work critical for strict adherence to safety protocols and protective measures.