What is the first action to take if workers notice a cave-in?

If workers notice a cave-in, the first action they should take is to evacuate the area immediately and inform a competent person. This response is crucial because a cave-in poses an immediate and significant risk to the safety of all personnel in the vicinity. Evacuating ensures that workers are removed from harm's way, preventing potential injuries or fatalities.

Informing a competent person, who is trained and knowledgeable about the hazards associated with excavation and cave-ins, allows for a proper assessment of the situation. This person can then initiate appropriate safety measures, determine whether emergency services are needed, and coordinate further responses to the incident. The priority is to ensure that everyone is safe and that any necessary rescue operations can be handled by trained professionals, rather than leaving unqualified individuals to manage a highly dangerous scenario on their own.

Continuing to work would expose workers to unnecessary danger, and attempting to stabilize the site without proper training could worsen the situation. Calling for emergency services without evacuating first might leave individuals vulnerable to a potential second cave-in while they wait for help. Thus, the recommended course of action prioritizes safety and proper protocol in crisis situations.