According to OSHA, what is required for excavations deeper than 20 feet?

For excavations deeper than 20 feet, OSHA regulations mandate that a design by a professional engineer is necessary. This requirement is in place to ensure the structural integrity and safety of the excavation, as deeper excavations pose greater risks of cave-ins and other hazards. A professional engineer can evaluate site conditions, soil types, and environmental factors, and subsequently provide a design that includes proper shoring, shielding, or sloping methods to protect workers.

Other aspects, like warning signs, safety officers, and equipment inspections, while important for job site safety management, do not specifically address the fundamental requirement for detailed engineering design to safeguard employees working in such deep excavations. Hence, obtaining a professional engineer's design is crucial for compliance with safety standards set forth by OSHA in these contexts.