Massachusetts Hoisting License Practice Test

A four-foot-deep trench requires an additional ladder for every _______ of open trench?

1. 50 feet

2. 25 feet

3. 30 feet

4. 15 feet

The correct answer is: 25 feet

In excavation safety, particularly for trenches deeper than a certain height, regulations stipulate that an additional ladder must be provided to ensure safe access and egress for workers. For a trench that is four feet deep, the requirement is to have an additional ladder for every 25 feet of open trench. This regulation is rooted in the necessity to mitigate the risk of accidents such as falls, ensuring workers have safe means to enter and exit the trench quickly and efficiently. Having the ladder placement at intervals of 25 feet promotes safety by preventing workers from having to climb out of deeper trenches without proper support. It also encourages adherence to safety protocols, as more accessible ladders reduce the likelihood of dangerous behaviors, such as climbing out of trenches that are potentially unstable. While the other options suggest different distances—50 feet, 30 feet, and 15 feet—none align with current safety standards and regulations set out for trench safety in the workplace, emphasizing the importance of understanding these specific requirements.