How far should the spoil pile be placed from an excavation?

The recommended distance for placing the spoil pile from an excavation is 1.0 meter (3 feet). This distance is important for several reasons, primarily related to safety and stability. Maintaining the spoil pile at this distance helps prevent the possibility of loose material rolling or falling back into the trench or excavation, which could pose a risk to workers.

Additionally, this spacing provides adequate room for equipment and allows for safe access to the site while ensuring that the spoil does not interfere with the stability of the excavation walls. Proper distances also assist in managing water drainage and keeping the excavation area clear, which is critical for maintaining safety during the construction process.

Other distances either bring the spoil too close to pose a risk of collapse into the excavation or are unnecessarily far, which could limit efficient use of site space.