When should an excavation site be inspected by a safety professional?

The best practice for ensuring the safety of an excavation site is to conduct inspections whenever there are changes in soil conditions or after inclement weather. This approach is crucial because soil stability can be significantly affected by various factors, such as heavy rainfall, flooding, or changes in temperature, which can lead to shifting ground and increased risk of cave-ins. Regular inspections help identify potential hazards early, allowing for timely interventions to mitigate risks and ensure worker safety.

In contrast, only inspecting an excavation site after the project is completed does not provide adequate safety oversight during the construction process. Similarly, conducting inspections solely at the beginning of the excavation fails to account for ongoing changes that may occur throughout the duration of the work. Waiting until after a cave-in occurs is simply too late and can result in severe consequences, highlighting the importance of proactive rather than reactive safety measures.