What is the maximum distance an escape device for a trench over 4 feet deep must be from the worker?

The correct answer is that the maximum distance an escape device for a trench over 4 feet deep must be from the worker is 25 feet. This requirement is grounded in safety regulations aimed at preventing accidents and ensuring quick escape in the event of a trench collapse.

In trenches deeper than 4 feet, the risks of cave-ins increase significantly, and thus, immediate access to an escape route can be critical for worker safety. The provision that the escape device must be no more than 25 feet away ensures that workers can swiftly get to safety without losing valuable time, which can make a difference in emergency situations.

Furthermore, maintaining the escape device within this distance also enhances the overall safety culture on the job site, encouraging workers to be aware of their surroundings and prepared for potential hazards. Compliance with such standards is not only a best practice but also a regulatory requirement, ensuring that workers are protected while performing their duties in hazardous environments.