What is the maximum time interval between competent person inspections of an excavation?
Correct Answer
A) Daily before start of work
OSHA requires daily inspection of excavations by a competent person before workers enter, and also after any event that could change conditions such as rainstorms or nearby construction activities.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
OSHA 29 CFR 1926.651(k)(1) specifically requires that excavations be inspected by a competent person daily before the start of work and as needed throughout the shift. This daily inspection requirement ensures that any overnight changes in soil conditions, weather effects, or other hazards are identified before workers enter the excavation. The competent person must also inspect after any occurrence that could have changed conditions, such as rainstorms, freezing, or nearby construction activities.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option C: Every 48 hours
Weekly inspections are far too infrequent for excavation safety, as dangerous conditions can develop within hours due to weather changes, soil shifts, or nearby construction activities.
Option D: Weekly
While inspections every 8 hours might seem frequent enough, OSHA specifically requires daily inspections before work begins, not based on hourly intervals during work.
Memory Technique
Use the acronym 'DAILY' - Dangerous Areas Inspected by Licensed/competent person Yearly? No! Daily!
Reference Hint
OSHA Construction Standards 29 CFR 1926 Subpart P - Excavations, specifically section 1926.651(k)(1) regarding inspection requirements
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