What is a common method used to protect workers during trenching operations?

Trench shields or trench boxes are specifically designed to protect workers in trenching operations by preventing soil from cave-ins, which is one of the leading hazards associated with excavations. These structures are inserted into the trench to support the walls, ensuring that workers have a safe working environment while they perform their tasks below ground level.

The use of trench shields is crucial because they allow for safe entry and exit from the trench and provide vital support when workers are inside, significantly reducing the risk of accidents. Other safety measures, like safety helmets, excavation barriers, or personal protective equipment, while important for overall worker safety, do not specifically address the unique hazards presented by trenching activities. They play a supplementary role but cannot substitute for the dedicated protection that trench shields provide against soil collapses.