What must be done before entering a work site with excavation present?

Conducting an inspection before entering a work site with excavation is essential for ensuring safety and compliance with regulations. This inspection helps identify potential hazards such as unstable soil conditions, the presence of underground utilities, or other hazards that can pose risks to workers. By assessing these factors beforehand, workers can take appropriate precautions, such as shoring or sloping, to protect themselves from cave-ins or other excavation-related incidents. This proactive step is fundamental to creating a safe work environment, as it allows for proper planning and risk management before any work begins.

In addition to general safety practices, such inspections are often mandated by Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations, further emphasizing their importance in maintaining safety standards on construction sites. This foundational safety measure is paramount in protecting workers and preventing accidents related to excavation work.