What does OSHA strictly prohibit in excavations where employees are working?

The prohibition of water accumulation in excavations where employees are working is a critical safety measure within the OSHA standards. Water accumulation can create significant hazards for workers, including the risk of flooding, which can lead to unexpected cave-ins or erosion, undermining the stability of the excavation. Moreover, water can reduce visibility, increase the weight of the soil exerted on trench walls, and pose slip and fall hazards for workers in and around the excavation site. Therefore, effective measures must be taken to control water accumulation before and during the work process to ensure a safe working environment. This is a vital aspect of excavation safety as outlined in OSHA regulations to protect the health and safety of workers.