Employees are working within an excavation that is more than 4 foot deep and cannot safely exit the site. What is a hazard that needs to be addressed in this situation?

Question

Select the best option.

Access/Egress

Oxygen Deficiency and Toxic Fumes

Water Accumulation

Answer 1

In this situation, the best option to address the hazard is:

Access/Egress

This is critical because employees working in an excavation deeper than 4 feet need a safe and quick means to exit in case of an emergency. While oxygen deficiency and water accumulation can also be concerns in excavations, the primary immediate concern for workers who cannot safely exit the site is ensuring that they have a secure and accessible means of egress.