What does trench sheeting primarily prevent during excavation?

Trench sheeting is specifically designed to provide support to the sides of an excavation, effectively preventing cave-ins. When workers dig in trenches, the surrounding soil can be unstable and lead to collapsing walls, posing a significant risk to worker safety. By utilizing trench sheeting, which consists of materials like boards or steel plates placed against the excavation walls, the integrity of the trench is maintained, thereby safeguarding against these dangerous collapses.

While the other options may have relevance in broader excavation practices, they do not capture the primary function of trench sheeting. For instance, while soil erosion can occur at excavation sites, trench sheeting is not aimed at addressing this issue directly. Similarly, water accumulation and groundwater contamination are concerns that typically relate to drainage and environmental protection measures rather than the structural support offered by trench sheeting. Therefore, focusing on preventing cave-ins highlights the essential role that trench sheeting plays in ensuring safety during excavation work.