How far should spoil from an excavation be placed from the edge of a hole?

The appropriate distance to place spoil from the edge of an excavation is typically two feet. This distance helps to ensure that the weight of the spoil does not compromise the stability of the excavation wall, which can lead to collapses or cave-ins. Keeping the spoil at least two feet away allows for adequate space and minimizes the risk of the material sliding back into the excavation area, which is crucial for maintaining a safe working environment.

Additionally, this practice adheres to safety regulations and guidelines that are established to protect workers in excavation sites. Positioning the spoil closer than this could increase the likelihood of an accident occurring, such as erosion of the edge or a worker being hit by falling materials. Therefore, placing spoil two feet away effectively prioritizes safety and structural integrity at excavation sites.