Is it allowable under OSHA standards for a contractor to cut a trench slightly wider than the shield for easy sliding if there’s no danger of trapping workers?

Under OSHA standards, it is not allowable for a contractor to cut a trench slightly wider than the shield, even if the contractor believes there is no danger of trapping workers. Trench shields and protective systems are designed to provide a specific level of protection based on the width and depth of the trench, and altering the width could compromise the integrity and effectiveness of the protective measures in place.

The safety standards emphasize the importance of maintaining proper dimensions to ensure that workers are safeguarded against cave-ins and other hazards associated with excavations. Even in scenarios where the immediate perception may suggest that conditions are safe, any deviation from established safety guidelines can introduce risks that may not be initially apparent. Therefore, strict adherence to trench specifications is crucial for worker safety and regulatory compliance.