OSHA 10-Hour Construction ReviewExcavationsEasy
A worker needs to enter a trench that is 5 feet deep. What is the minimum requirement for safe access and egress as per OSHA standards?
- AWorkers may jump into and out of the trench if it's less than 6 feet deep.
- BA ladder must be provided within 50 feet of workers.
- CA ramp must be provided if the trench is 6 feet deep or more.
- DA ladder, ramp, or other safe means of egress must be within 25 feet of workers.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. A ladder, ramp, or other safe means of egress must be within 25 feet of workers.
OSHA regulations state that a safe means of egress, such as a ladder, ramp, or steps, must be located within 25 feet of workers in trenches 4 feet or more in depth. Since this trench is 5 feet deep, this rule applies.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Jumping into or out of a trench is never considered a safe means of egress, regardless of depth, due to the risk of injury.
- B. The maximum distance for a safe means of egress is 25 feet, not 50 feet.
- C. While ramps are an option, the depth threshold for requiring egress is 4 feet, not 6 feet, and the 25-foot rule still applies.
Trench Access/Egress
For trenches 4 feet (1.22 m) or more in depth, a safe means of egress must be provided and located so as to require no more than 25 feet (7.62 m) of lateral travel for employees.
- Required for trenches 4 feet or deeper.
- Egress must be within 25 feet of workers.
- Examples include ladders, ramps, stairways.
- Must be designed by a competent person.
Memory trick: Exit Quickly, Safely, Always