What does OSHA require for employees working in an excavation over 5 feet deep?

OSHA requires the use of a protective system for employees working in an excavation that is over 5 feet deep to ensure their safety. Excavations are prone to cave-ins, which pose significant hazards to workers. A protective system may include trench boxes, shoring, or sloping techniques designed to prevent soil from collapsing and to protect workers within the excavation site. By implementing these systems, employers can effectively minimize the risk of accidents and injuries related to trench collapses.

While personal protective equipment is crucial in various work environments, it does not specifically address the unique hazards associated with deep excavations. Likewise, there is no requirement for verification from a site manager as a standalone safety measure without the essential protective systems in place. Such measures help to create a safe working environment consistent with OSHA regulations and best practices in excavation safety.