SafetyQuestion 320 of 360
While excavating a trench, the crew is piling the removed dirt (spoil) beside the opening. What is the minimum distance the spoil pile must be kept back from the edge of the trench?
a.6 inches
b.1 foot
c.2 feet
d.It may be placed right at the edge if compacted
Explanation
Title 8 §1541.1 requires spoil, tools, and other materials to be kept at least 2 feet from the trench edge, or restrained by a retaining device. Material stacked at the lip adds surcharge load that can trigger a cave-in and can roll back onto workers below. The 2-foot setback also keeps loose material from falling in.
Law Reference: Cal/OSHA Title 8 §1541Practice all 360 questions free — no signup required.
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