What are protective systems used for during excavations?

Protective systems in the context of excavations are specifically designed to safeguard workers against the hazards associated with cave-ins. Cave-ins pose significant risks in excavation sites, where the ground can become unstable and collapse, leading to serious injuries or fatalities. The implementation of protective systems—such as trench boxes, shoring, and sloping—ensures that excavated areas are secure and that employees can work safely within them. These systems stabilize the sides of the excavation, helping to prevent soil from falling in and protecting the workforce, which is the primary focus of safety regulations in the construction industry concerning excavations. This highlights the critical importance of using protective systems as part of the overall safety protocol on excavation sites.