SafetyQuestion 527 of 700
Spoil (excavated soil) is being placed next to an open trench. Where should the spoil pile be kept to reduce cave-in risk?
a.Right at the edge of the trench for easy backfill
b.Balanced on the shoring
c.Inside the trench with the workers
d.Set back at least 2 feet from the trench edge
Explanation
Cal/OSHA requires spoil piles and other loads to be kept back at least 2 feet from the trench edge so their weight does not surcharge the trench wall and trigger a collapse. Option d is correct. Placing spoil at the edge (a) adds dangerous load, resting it on the shoring (b) overloads the system, and putting it in the trench (c) endangers the workers directly.
Law Reference: Cal/OSHA Title 8, Construction Safety OrdersPractice all 700 questions free — no signup required.
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