What is a common potential hazard of an improper slope in excavation?

An improper slope in excavation can lead to collapse, which is a significant safety concern. When the angle of the slope is too steep or not properly reinforced, the soil can lose its stability. This instability might cause the walls of the excavation to give way, posing a serious risk to personnel working in or near the excavation site.

In contrast, other options like cavitation, drainage, and vibration, while relevant to excavation work, are not direct hazards stemming from slope issues. Cavitation refers to the formation of vapor cavities in a liquid, which is more relevant to fluid dynamics than to excavation. Drainage relates to how water is managed around an excavation site, which can impact stability but is not inherently dangerous due to slope alone. Vibration generally concerns equipment usage or geological conditions rather than excavation slope stability. Therefore, recognizing the risk of collapse highlights the importance of proper slope design and monitoring in excavation projects for ensuring worker safety.