What would you expect to use if lateral support is needed during excavation?

When lateral support is needed during excavation, shoring is the appropriate choice. Shoring involves the use of supports to prevent the collapse of soil during excavation, particularly in unstable or loose soils. This technique is critical in maintaining the safety of the excavation site by allowing workers to safely access and work within the excavated area without the risk of soil movements that could lead to injuries or accidents.

Shoring can take various forms, such as trenches, braces, or horizontal support systems, and is designed to hold back soil and ensure that the walls of the excavation remain stable. This becomes especially important in deeper excavations or in areas where the soil conditions are uncertain.

Other options, such as foundation beams, caissons, or concrete slabs, serve different purposes in construction and engineering. Foundation beams typically support loads from structures above rather than providing lateral support during excavation. Caissons are deep piers used to support structures, and though they may stabilize soil to some extent, they are not employed specifically for lateral soil support during an excavation. Concrete slabs typically serve as flooring or roof systems in buildings and do not offer the lateral support necessary during excavation activities.