What evidence is considered a sign of potentially hazardous situations in excavated areas?

Small spalls from the excavation face indicate that material is dislodging or breaking away, which can be a sign of instability in the walls of the excavation. This can create a hazardous situation for workers in or near the excavated area. When the face of an excavation shows small spalls, it suggests that the soil is not well-contained or that it may be under stress, increasing the risk of a collapse or other dangerous events. Recognizing such signs is critical for maintaining a safe work environment and preventing accidents.

Visible layering of soil may reflect natural stratification and does not inherently indicate a hazardous situation. Presence of utility markers, while important for safety to avoid damaging underground utilities, does not relate directly to the stability of the excavation itself. Strong soil cohesion suggests that the soil is stable and less likely to collapse, which is contrary to the identification of a potentially hazardous condition.