Which practice is essential for ensuring the safety of workers near excavation edges?

Establishing a warning line system is crucial for ensuring the safety of workers near excavation edges because it provides a clear visual indication of the danger zones. This system alerts workers to the proximity of the excavation edge and helps prevent accidental falls into the excavation area. Warning lines serve as an important safety measure, especially in situations where the excavation is deep or where visibility is compromised. Effective communication of these boundaries can help keep workers aware and cautious in potentially hazardous areas, thereby minimizing the risk of incidents.

While other practices such as restricting access to authorized personnel, using heavy machinery, and implementing a buddy system can contribute to overall safety, they do not provide the same level of immediate visual warning regarding the specific hazards presented by excavation edges. The warning line system directly addresses the risks associated with these edges by marking the boundaries that workers should avoid, enhancing their ability to work safely.