Cave-in deaths during excavation are primarily caused by what factors?

Cave-in deaths during excavation are primarily caused by suffocation or crushing because when an excavation collapses, the sudden weight of the soil or rock can bury workers. This is particularly dangerous because the weight of just a few cubic feet of soil can be lethal, creating a situation where a worker may quickly become entrapped and unable to escape. The likelihood of suffocation is high due to the surrounding soil pressing down, which can restrict breathing. Additionally, workers who are caught may suffer from crushing injuries, making timely rescue critical.

Factors such as fire, electric shocks, falls, or equipment malfunction can certainly pose dangers on job sites but are not the primary causes of fatalities specifically due to cave-ins. Cave-ins are distinct in the way they can lead to immediate and severe consequences, emphasizing the importance of proper safety measures, training, and preventative strategies while working in trenches and excavations.