After a rainstorm halts work, must the competent person reinspect the excavation before employees can re-enter?

The requirement for a competent person to reinspect the excavation after a rainstorm is crucial for ensuring the safety of workers. Rain can alter the stability of the excavation site significantly. Water saturation can lead to soil shifts, increased weight on walls, and potential cave-ins. A competent person, with the training and experience necessary to identify hazards, must assess these changes before any workers can safely return to the site.

This reinspecting process allows for the assessment of conditions such as soil stability, water accumulation, and any signs of erosion or deterioration that may have occurred due to the rain. Without this critical step, workers could unknowingly place themselves in dangerous situations, making it imperative that a thorough inspection is completed regardless of the severity of the rainstorm. Thus, requiring a reinspect aligns with safety protocols and regulations aimed at protecting worker health and safety.