How far must a spoil pile be from the edge of a trench?

The correct distance for a spoil pile from the edge of a trench is 2 feet. This regulation is in place to ensure safety and stability at the trench site. When a trench is dug, the soil removed is placed in a spoil pile. If this pile is too close to the edge of the trench, it can exert pressure on the trench walls, increasing the risk of cave-ins. Having the spoil pile at least 2 feet away helps to mitigate this risk by providing adequate space for the trench walls to remain stable.

Maintaining this distance is also crucial in adherence to safety standards set forth by regulations to prevent hazards related to working around excavated trenches. In general, proximity between a spoil pile and a trench is governed by these safety guidelines to protect workers and maintain structural integrity during operations.