For trench excavations, a means of exit and entry must be provided for trenches how deep?

For trench excavations, it is important to have a safe means of entry and exit when the depth reaches four feet or more. This requirement is outlined in safety regulations to ensure that workers can safely enter and exit the trench without risking falls or entrapment. Trenches that are at least four feet deep can pose significant hazards, such as collapsing or being difficult to maneuver in, which is why the safety standards mandate that a ladder, stairway, or ramp be available for workers.

When considering depths less than four feet, while there may still be risks involved, the regulations recognize that the hazards are less severe, which is why entry and exit measures are not mandated for trenches that do not exceed this depth. Thus, the requirement for a means of entry and exit begins specifically at four feet.