What is the maximum lateral travel distance to required means of egress in excavations?

The maximum lateral travel distance to required means of egress in excavations is set at 25 feet. This guideline is rooted in safety standards aimed at preventing hazards associated with excavation work. The rationale behind this limitation is to ensure that workers can quickly and easily reach a safe exit route in case of emergencies such as cave-ins, falling materials, or other unforeseen events that may pose a risk while working in or around excavations.

Maintaining a distance of 25 feet enhances the likelihood that workers can evacuate quickly and safely, thereby reducing the potential for injuries or fatalities. Egress routes that are too far away may lead to delays in evacuation or increase the chance that workers may not reach safety in time, which is especially critical considering the unpredictable nature of excavation environments.

In assessing the other options, while distances greater than 25 feet may seem feasible in certain scenarios, they do not align with established safety standards that prioritize swift access to exits. This strict distance is a key precaution established by safety regulations to foster a safer working environment in excavation sites.