What is one method used to protect workers in a trench?

Protecting workers in a trench is critical to ensure their safety and prevent cave-ins. One effective way to achieve this is through the use of various protective methods, including benching, shielding, and sloping, each of which serves a specific purpose in managing the risks associated with trench work.

Benching involves creating a series of steps or shelves in the trench walls, which helps to reduce the angle of the wall and distribute the weight of the soil more safely. This design can make it easier for workers to access different levels within the trench while maintaining stability.

Shielding, on the other hand, utilizes trench boxes or shields to provide a protective barrier against soil movement. These structures are designed to withstand the pressure from above, thus preventing cave-ins and offering a safe environment for workers operating within the trench.

Sloping entails configuring the walls of the trench at an angle, which also decreases the likelihood of a collapse. This method allows for a natural support system by reducing the vertical load on the walls.

Since all three of these methods—benching, shielding, and sloping—are recognized and effective strategies for protecting workers in trenches, the option that includes all of them is the most comprehensive and accurate answer. Each method complements the others, and their use