What are the most misunderstood and overlooked standards in excavation?

That's the key question.

One of the biggest misconceptions is that trench isn't dangerous because it's relatively shallow.

The reality is that the cave-ins can occur in surprisingly shallow excavation and can have devastating consequences.

We also see contractors underestimate the impact of changing soil conditions.

Weather, groundwater, and surcharge loads from equipment or material stockpiles placed too close to an excavation can cause the shallower excavation to become even more hazardous than thought.

Another area that is often overlooked is the importance of following manufacturer's tabulated data exactly as written.

What do you see as emerging trends in industry safety?