What is the minimum total height for vertical sides in an excavation less than 20' deep?

The minimum total height for vertical sides in an excavation less than 20 feet deep is determined by safety regulations that aim to prevent collapse and safeguard workers. For excavations of this depth, a height of 18 inches is specified to ensure that the sides are adequately shored or sloped as necessary to maintain stability.

When dealing with trenching and excavation safety, it is crucial to adhere to the regulations to prevent cave-ins, which are a leading cause of fatalities in construction work. The requirement for a minimum height supports the idea that even short vertical sides need consideration to ensure they can support the weight of surrounding soil and any additional loads, especially in the event of unexpected rainfall or vibrations from nearby activities.

Understanding this regulation helps ensure that all necessary precautions are taken in the field, promoting a safer work environment for everyone involved.