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How often must excavations and protective systems be inspected for cave-in hazards?

Daily by a competent person.

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  1. Weekly
  2. Daily by a competent person ✔
  3. Only after a cave-in

Why: 1926.651(k)(1) requires daily inspections of excavations, adjacent areas, and protective systems by a competent person.

Huh, didn't know that: Inspections also look for hazardous atmospheres and failing protective systems.

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Why did the excavator win an award? It really dug its job.
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References

Answer: Daily by a competent person. 1926.651(k)(1) requires daily inspections of excavations, adjacent areas, and protective systems by a competent person.

  1. 29 CFR 1926.651(k)(1) www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/29/1926.651
    Daily inspections of excavations, the adjacent areas, and protective systems shall be made by a competent person.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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