• Edges of excavations that are not readily seen should be protected by guardrails, fences, or barricades.
• Wells, pits, shafts and similar excavations should be protected when they are 6 feet deep or more.

Although employers are not generally required to provide guardrail systems at excavations, the rule requires that the edges of excavations which are not readily seen (such as one that is concealed from view by plant growth) be protected by guardrail systems, fences, or barricades to prevent employees from falling into them if the excavation depth is six feet or more.

In addition, wells, pits, shafts, and similar excavations with depths of six feet or more must be guarded to prevent employees from falling into them.