What is the appropriate action to take with open holes or trenches at the end of the day?

The most appropriate action to take with open holes or trenches at the end of the day is to backfill them. Backfilling is critical for safety at construction sites; open holes and trenches can pose significant hazards to workers and the public. By backfilling these areas, the risk of accidents, such as falls or injuries caused by individuals inadvertently stepping into them, is greatly reduced.

This practice also helps to ensure that the work site complies with safety regulations, making it a responsible and professional course of action. Leaving holes as they are or ignoring them could lead to serious accidents and liability issues. Covering the holes can be a secondary safety measure, but it may not provide complete protection or resolve the issue of the hazard when there is a known risk of accidents associated with open excavations. Thus, backfilling is the best option for effectively mitigating hazards associated with open holes or trenches at the end of the workday.