What is the purpose of preventing cave-ins in trench work?

The primary purpose of preventing cave-ins in trench work is to ensure worker safety. Trench collapses can pose significant hazards to workers who are excavating or working in these environments. These collapses can occur suddenly and with little warning, leading to serious injuries or fatalities. Therefore, implementing safety measures such as shoring, shielding, and sloping is essential to protect workers from the dangers associated with trench work.

While maintaining soil temperature, reducing construction time, and facilitating drainage may play roles in construction practices, they are not the main drivers for preventing cave-ins. The critical focus remains on creating a safe work environment where workers can perform their tasks without the risk of a potentially fatal accident due to a trench collapse.