At what depth must cave-in protection be provided for excavations?

Cave-in protection must be provided for excavations that are 5 feet deep or more, as established by OSHA standards. This is crucial because excavations of this depth present significant risks of soil collapse, which can lead to serious injuries or fatalities for workers who are in or near these areas. The 5-foot threshold ensures that proper safety measures, such as shoring, shielding, or sloping, are implemented to protect workers from potential cave-ins.

This regulation reflects the understanding that as the depth of an excavation increases, so does the likelihood of a hazardous situation occurring. By enforcing this requirement, OSHA aims to minimize risks and enhance workplace safety in construction environments.