Under what condition can employees work in excavations with accumulated water?

Working in excavations with accumulated water presents several hazards, primarily related to the risks of drowning, soil instability, and the potential for slips and falls. Choosing to work under such conditions necessitates taking precautions against these water hazards to ensure the safety of employees.

If precautions are taken, this could include methods such as installing a system for water removal, ensuring proper drainage, using personal protective equipment to prevent slipping, and conducting ongoing assessments of the excavation's stability. These safety measures are critical in minimizing the risks associated with water accumulation, thereby allowing workers to carry out their tasks more safely.

While the volume of water, depth of the excavation, and training of employees are important factors in excavation safety, none alone qualify or justify working in conditions with accumulated water without those essential precautions being in place.