SafetyQuestion 322 of 360
A very deep sewer excavation reaches 22 feet. What does Cal/OSHA require regarding the protective system for a trench deeper than 20 feet?
a.The protective system must be designed by a registered professional engineer
b.No special requirement applies beyond standard shoring
c.Only a competent person's verbal approval is needed
d.The trench must be backfilled the same day
Explanation
Under Title 8 §1541.1, when an excavation exceeds 20 feet in depth, the protective system (sloping, shoring, or shielding) must be designed by a registered professional engineer, or use tabulated data approved by a PE. Standard tabulated slopes and manufacturer shield charts generally cover excavations up to 20 feet. Extra engineering accounts for the greater soil loads at depth.
Law Reference: Cal/OSHA Title 8 §1541.1Practice all 360 questions free — no signup required.
Related questions on this topic
- Cal/OSHA requires that a 'competent person' oversee trenching operations. What best describes this person's authority on the jobsite?
- 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 plumber is working in a trench 5 feet deep and 60 feet long installing pipe. Cal/OSHA requires a means of egress (ladder, ramp, or steps). How far must a worker ever have to travel laterally to reach that egress?
- A crew chooses to slope the walls of a trench instead of shoring it. The soil has been classified as Type C (the least stable, such as loose sand or wet soil). What is the maximum allowable slope for Type C soil?
- Cal/OSHA recognizes several methods of protecting workers from trench cave-ins. Which of the following is a recognized protective method?
- A trench that was safe yesterday saw heavy overnight rain. How often does Cal/OSHA require a competent person to inspect an excavation where workers will be exposed?
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