Which of the following is NOT a factor to consider when choosing a protective system during excavations?

When determining the appropriate protective system during excavations, several factors must be considered to ensure worker safety. Soil classification is crucial as it helps identify the type of soil present and its stability, which directly affects the likelihood of cave-ins. The depth of the cut is also significant, as deeper excavations may require more robust protective systems to safeguard against collapse. The water content of the soil plays a critical role since excess moisture can weaken soil structure, increasing the risk of excavation failures.

The type of excavation equipment, while relevant for operational efficiency and logistics, is not a primary factor in selecting a protective system. Instead, the protective measures are predominantly influenced by environmental and soil-related conditions. Consequently, equipment choice does not directly assess the soil's safety factors, making it less relevant in the context of protective system selection. This distinction clarifies why this particular factor is not considered when choosing a protective system during excavations.