What is a critical factor to avoid when positioning a trench box?

Positioning a trench box too high can compromise its effectiveness and safety. A trench box is designed to protect workers from collapses and any hazards associated with trenching work. When situated too high, it may not provide adequate protection because it may not fully extend around the workers or support the surrounding soil effectively. This can create a situation where the risk of a wall collapse increases, exposing workers to potential dangers.

By ensuring that the trench box is at an appropriate height, it effectively engages with the surrounding soil and walls of the trench, reducing the risk of cave-ins and promoting a safer work environment. Proper positioning allows the trench box to perform its intended function of safeguarding workers from the inherent dangers of excavation work. Adequate depth and proximity to the wall are also important factors, but they relate more to structural integrity and ensuring that the box is deployed effectively along the length of the trench.