When should shoring equipment be installed at an excavation site?

Shoring equipment should be installed at an excavation site before workers enter a trench or excavation that is deeper than 5 feet. This is critical for ensuring the safety of personnel working in or near the excavation. Trenches and excavations that exceed this depth pose a significant risk of soil collapse, which can lead to serious injuries or fatalities if adequate protective measures, such as shoring, are not in place.

By installing shoring equipment beforehand, you provide immediate protection for workers against the hazards of cave-ins at the onset of work. This proactive approach aligns with safety regulations and best practices in excavation, ensuring a safer work environment from the very beginning of the excavation process. Implementing shoring after the work has begun or waiting to do so based on equipment operations increases the risk of accidents and undermines the safety protocols that are essential for such high-risk activities.