While excavating, how far must spoil be placed from the edge of the hole?

The guidelines for excavating dictate that spoil, which is the material removed from the excavation site, should be placed at a safe distance from the edge of the hole to prevent collapse and ensure the safety of workers. Placing spoil too close can create unstable conditions around the excavation site, increasing the risk of landslides or cave-ins.

The correct answer indicates that a distance of 2 feet is the minimum safe distance specified. This distance helps to ensure that the weight and pressure of the spoil do not compromise the stability of the excavation or create hazardous conditions for workers. It is important to adhere to this distance in order to maintain a safe work environment and to comply with safety regulations governing excavation practices.

While other distances may seem reasonable, they may not adequately address the safety concerns associated with excavation sites. Therefore, maintaining a 2-foot distance is a prudent safety measure that aligns with standard excavation practices.