What depth should an excavation be inspected before work begins?

An excavation should be inspected at all depths before work begins to ensure the safety of workers and the integrity of the structure being built or maintained. This comprehensive inspection is crucial because hazards such as soil instability, water accumulation, or the presence of underground utilities can exist at any depth within the excavation.

Inspecting only certain depths would leave potential risks unassessed, which could lead to dangerous situations such as collapses or accidents. Guidelines from safety organizations, including OSHA, emphasize the importance of thoroughly evaluating the entire excavation to identify and mitigate any possible dangers, regardless of how deep the excavation is.

Ensuring that the site has been properly inspected at all depths allows for the implementation of necessary safety measures, such as shoring or sloping techniques, to protect workers from hazards associated with excavations.