What is the primary concern when excavating a trench in wet conditions?

The primary concern when excavating a trench in wet conditions is soil stability. Wet ground conditions can significantly alter the structural integrity of the soil surrounding the trench, making it prone to collapsing or shifting. When soil becomes saturated with water, its cohesion can diminish, resulting in a higher risk of cave-ins. This instability poses serious hazards to workers within and around the trench. It is crucial to assess soil type, moisture content, and potential drainage issues before proceeding with excavation to ensure that safety measures, such as shoring or sloping, are implemented to protect workers from possible accidents.

While factors like electrical safety and water accumulation can also pose challenges in wet excavation environments, the foremost concern remains the stability of the soil itself, which directly affects the safety of the excavation site. Accessibility is important, but it is secondary to addressing the critical risks associated with soil stability under wet conditions.