How often must a "competent person" inspect excavations and adjacent areas for hazards?

A "competent person" is required to inspect excavations and adjacent areas for hazards prior to the start of work each day, as well as throughout the shift as necessary. This ensures that any potential hazards are identified and addressed before work begins, promoting a safe working environment for all employees.

While it's true that continuous monitoring or hourly checks could enhance safety and allow for immediate response to hazards, the fundamental requirement is to ensure a thorough inspection is conducted at the beginning of the workday. As conditions can change throughout the day (due to weather, nearby work activities, or other factors), the competent person must also be prepared to reassess the site at any point during the shift if there are indications of potential hazards, ensuring ongoing safety for workers.

Thus, the requirement goes beyond merely performing inspections at the start of the day, but this option emphasizes a proactive approach to safety management. By adhering to this protocol, the likelihood of accidents or injuries in the excavation area can be significantly minimized.