In trenching and excavation practices, what is required for any excavation deeper than 5 feet?

For excavations deeper than 5 feet, the requirement for shoring, trench shields, or sloping to prevent cave-ins is crucial for ensuring worker safety. This requirement is grounded in regulations set forth by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) as well as industry best practices.

When excavations are conducted, the risk of soil collapse increases significantly as depth increases. Shoring or trench shields serve to provide structural support to the walls of the excavation, preventing them from caving in and potentially burying workers. Additionally, sloping the sides of the excavation can reduce the risk of collapse by creating a stable angle that allows soil to remain in place.

By adhering to these safety measures, the likelihood of accidents can be greatly minimized, protecting workers from serious injuries or fatalities that could occur in an unprotected excavation site. This is why option B is recognized as the necessary requirement for excavations of this depth in trenching and excavation practices.