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According to OSHA, what is the minimum depth at which employees must be protected from cave-ins during excavations?

  1. 3 feet

  2. 4 feet

  3. 5 feet

  4. 6 feet

The correct answer is: 5 feet

According to OSHA regulations, the minimum depth at which employees must be protected from cave-ins during excavations is 5 feet. At this depth, the risk of a cave-in increases significantly, and employers are required to implement protective measures such as trench boxes, shoring, or sloping. This regulation is crucial in ensuring the safety of workers involved in excavation activities, as cave-ins can result in serious injuries or fatalities. The 5-foot guideline is based on studies and statistics that demonstrate the dangers associated with deeper excavations, emphasizing the necessity for protective systems at this depth to mitigate the hazards effectively. Therefore, understanding this requirement is vital for compliance with safety regulations and for maintaining a safe working environment.