ABSTRACT
The danger from excavations and trenches is primarily one of engulfment or being buried alive. It is difficult to perceive the hazard but an example may help to understand this somewhat. One cubic yard of soil (dirt) weighs approximately 2000 lb. This is equivalent to a Volkswagen beetle (bug) car on top of you. It is doubtful that you could lift it off you. Keep in mind that in most cases when an excavation or trench collapses on a worker the amount of soil falling in is usually more than 1 cu yd.
