What should be done to prevent cave-ins when digging?

To prevent cave-ins when digging, it is crucial to maintain stability around the edges of the excavation. Keeping the dirt away from the hole's edge significantly reduces the risk of it shifting and collapsing inward. Additionally, outlining the hole about 6 inches wider than the pole helps to create a safer working environment by allowing for adequate space to work and ensuring that the soil is not too close to the edge.

This approach is grounded in the principles of excavation safety, which emphasize the importance of maintaining a stable face around the excavation site. Techniques like sloping or benching the sides of the hole can further enhance safety, allowing for a more secure, less hazardous working condition.

While other approaches may seem viable, they do not effectively mitigate the risk of cave-ins. For instance, keeping the dirt close to the edge can inadvertently add weight to the sidewalls, increasing the likelihood of a collapse. Excavating deeper does not prevent cave-ins and may exacerbate the risk if not managed correctly. Covering a hole when not in use, while a useful safety precaution, does not address the inherent instability that arises during active excavation. Therefore, the most effective method is to ensure both proper distance and dimensions to minimize risks.