What safety measure should be taken when working in trenches deeper than 5 feet?

When working in trenches deeper than 5 feet, employing cave-in protections is a critical safety measure. Trenches are inherently hazardous environments where the walls may collapse, posing serious risks to workers inside. Implementing cave-in protection systems, such as trench boxes, shoring, or sloping, can significantly enhance the safety of workers by preventing soil from collapsing into the trench. These methods create a safer working environment and are mandated by OSHA regulations, ensuring compliance with safety standards in excavation work.

The focus on cave-in protections is essential because it directly addresses the primary hazard associated with deep trenches. While daily inspections and other safety measures are valuable, they are secondary to the immediate risk of collapse that can occur without proper protections in place. Therefore, understanding the importance of cave-in protections is vital for anyone working in or overseeing excavation activities.