CSLB General Building (B)SafetyEasy
A construction crew is working in a trench that is 5 feet deep. What is the minimum depth at which Cal/OSHA requires a protective system (sloping, shoring, or shielding) to be used?
- A5 feet
- B3 feet
- C4 feet
- D6 feet
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. 5 feet
Cal/OSHA mandates that protective systems must be used in trenches 5 feet or deeper, unless the excavation is entirely in stable rock or less than 5 feet deep and a competent person determines no hazard exists.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. This depth is below the Cal/OSHA minimum for requiring protective systems.
- C. This depth is below the Cal/OSHA minimum for requiring protective systems.
- D. While protective systems are required at this depth, it is not the minimum specified by Cal/OSHA.
Cal/OSHA Trench Protective System Depth
Cal/OSHA mandates the use of protective systems (sloping, shoring, shielding) for trenches 5 feet (1.52 meters) or deeper.
- Applies to trenches and excavations
- Minimum depth is 5 feet
- Protective systems include sloping, shoring, shielding
Memory trick: Five feet deep, your safety keep!