Under what soil condition is cave-in protection required for trenches or excavations 5 ft deep or more?

Cave-in protection is a critical safety measure mandated for trenches and excavations that are 5 feet deep or more, and it is always required regardless of the soil type. This requirement is based on the fact that trench collapses can occur in various soil conditions, including but not limited to soft, sandy, and cohesive soils.

Even in soils that may appear stable initially, factors such as saturation, vibration from nearby traffic or machinery, and other environmental conditions can undermine the integrity of the trench walls. Therefore, the use of cave-in protection, such as trench boxes, shoring, or sloping, ensures the safety of workers by providing physical support for the walls of the trench and preventing collapses that could lead to serious injuries or fatalities.

In essence, cave-in protection is a necessary precaution universally applied to safeguard workers' lives in any excavation scenario meeting the specified depth criteria, underscoring the importance of safety in various soil conditions.