How is a trench defined in comparison to an excavation?

A trench is specifically defined as a narrow excavation that is deeper than it is wide. This characteristic distinguishes a trench from a typical excavation, which can vary significantly in width and depth. The standard definition used in construction and safety regulations highlights that the depth of a trench typically exceeds its width, often in a proportion where the width at the top of the trench is significantly greater than the depth.

Understanding this definition is crucial for safety practices, especially concerning cave-ins and the stability of the trench walls. Knowledge of trench dimensions is also vital for compliance with regulations and for the planning and execution of safe excavation activities. Thus, the identification of a trench as deeper than it is wide establishes important criteria for its construction and the strategies required to ensure worker safety in these environments.