CSLB C-27 Landscaping ContractorSite Preparation and DrainageEasy
A landscape contractor is tasked with excavating a trench for a new drainage line. The trench will be 4 feet deep and 2 feet wide. According to Cal/OSHA regulations, what is the minimum required distance that excavated spoil piles must be kept from the edge of the trench?
- A4 feet
- B1 foot
- C2 feet
- D3 feet
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. 2 feet
Cal/OSHA regulations (and OSHA in general) require that excavated spoil piles be kept at least 2 feet from the edge of a trench. This prevents soil and materials from falling back into the trench, which could injure workers, and maintains the stability of the trench edge.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. 4 feet is also more than the minimum and offers greater safety, but 2 feet is the regulatory baseline.
- B. 1 foot is insufficient and creates a hazard of spoil falling back into the trench or compromising trench stability.
- D. 3 feet is more than the minimum but not strictly required, though it provides an additional safety margin.
Cal/OSHA Spoil Pile Distance
The minimum distance excavated material (spoil) must be kept from the edge of a trench or excavation, as mandated by Cal/OSHA.
- Minimum distance is 2 feet.
- Prevents material from falling back into the trench.
- Maintains trench stability.
- Crucial for worker safety.
Memory trick: Spoil Stays Safe, Two Feet From the Edge.