When must a means of egress be installed in an excavation?

A means of egress must be installed in an excavation when the excavation is 4 feet or more in depth. This requirement is specifically outlined by OSHA regulations to ensure the safety of workers who are in or near excavations. The risk of cave-ins increases significantly as the depth of the excavation increases, and providing a safe means of exiting the excavation is crucial for preventing accidents during emergencies or routine operations.

Egress methods, such as ladders or ramps, allow workers to exit the excavation quickly and safely. This becomes increasingly important at depths of 4 feet or greater, where the risk factors are elevated. Thus, this regulation aims to protect workers and establish a standard safety practice in construction and similar work environments.